By Holly Michels of The Montana Standard - 05/01/2007

Anyone who wants to buy a 5-gallon tub of mayonnaise will have their chance Tuesday at Three Bears Alaska’s grand opening.

“We’re excited,” said store manager Shane Ford. “Getting ready has gone smoothly, but it’s a big undertaking.” Many of the bulk grocery store’s 90-some employees spent last week helping vendors stock granola bars and dog bones as the constant beeps of forklifts and hum of coolers filled the air.

The estimated $9.3 million project started a year ago when the Weisz family, founders of the Alaska-based chain, scouted Butte for their first location in the lower 48 states.

Steve Mierop, chief financial officer, said the store is similar to national giant Costco — that chain is Three Bears’ largest supplier and uses the same shelving units — but differs in key ways.

“You don’t have to be a member or pay to shop here,” he said.

“And we also offer the option of single items, so you can buy a (single) dish soap.” Ford said he hopes his store will add to local grocery offerings.

“We as a company want to enhance the shopping experience in Butte and make Butte a shopping destination.” The store offers fresh Alaskan seafood, meats butchered on-site and a variety of produce, Mierop said.

Doors open at 8 a.m. Tuesday.

Three Bears Alaska is located near the intersection of Continental and Mount Highland Drives.