Chuck Brown Hires Staff for New Peoria Grocery Store
The store owner is hiring employees for CJ Harvest despite a delay in the planned grand opening for the location.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Jobs — General
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Owner Chuck Brown recently recruited employees at a job fair in Peoria as he continues building his new grocery store, CJ Harvest. The grand opening has been delayed beyond the original October 30 target due to ongoing structural and inspection requirements.
Why it matters
The store is working to resolve outstanding building safety issues that pushed back its opening date. Addressing these requirements, including structural reinforcement, is a critical step for the business to move toward its public launch in the community.
Chuck Brown has hired 8 employees so far with plans to reach 15 customer service associates. The project is supported by a $245,000 Capital Infrastructure Grant.
The players
Chuck Brown
He is the business owner leading the development and staffing efforts for the new grocery store.
The details
Contractors are currently performing fire alarm testing and reinforcing a structural beam that was previously cut in the building. Employees are undergoing orientation for shelf stocking and grocery operations while the owner manages an outstanding construction lien.
Timeline
October 23, 2026: The first employee orientation session took place.
October 24, 2026: Chuck Brown hosted a job fair at the RiverPlex Recreation and Wellness Center.
October 25, 2026: The store is scheduled to receive shelving units and wire POS systems.
October 30, 2026: This was the date originally planned for the grocery store grand opening.
Market Landscape
The grocery store utilizes the Capital Infrastructure Grant to stabilize its facility and compete in the local retail market. This development follows a pattern where businesses rely on public funding to overcome structural barriers and meet building code requirements.
Shoppers in South Side Peoria will need to wait longer than the initial October 30 deadline to visit the new grocery store. While hiring is underway, the restaurant portion of the business is confirmed to open at a later date.
The takeaway
Business owners often face complex regulatory and structural hurdles that can push back initial launch dates for new retail ventures. Prospective applicants should monitor local updates to understand when the facility will be fully operational for the public.
Further reading
Find more career opportunities and information on regional economic growth at Jobs — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 25newsnow.
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