Stew Leonard’s reportedly in talks for N.J. store

Norwalk-based Stew Leonard”™s is reportedly in discussions to open its first New Jersey grocery store at the Paramus Park mall.

According to coverage by NorthJersey.com, GGP Inc., the mall”™s owner, has been replacing fashion-focused tenants in its malls with food stores and is seeking a grocery retailer for its Paramus location. It is unclear where Stew Leonard”™s would be located within Paramus Park, although there is an unconfirmed report that the Sears location within the mall will be downsizing. Stew Leonard”™s is a familiar name in this market ”“ the company licenses its name to a wine retail chain that operates a store on Route 17 in Paramus.

Meghan Bell, director of public relations for Stew Leonard’s, acknowledged that the grocery chain is looking for a seventh store location and was in discussions with GGP, but was “not ready to make any announcements in regards to expansion.” Stew Leonard”™s is scheduled to open its newest store in East Meadow, Long Island, next month.