(Shopped 10/31/23 TU @ 3:30pm): That's right... they aided in my parking dilemma, but I did buy…read moresomething!
I happened across Rite Aid's El Segundo's Grand Ave. location because I couldn't find parking in the area to meet some friends next door at The Standard Station Sports Bar & Grill, and my Catholic guilt got the better of me. I always made it a habit whenever I parked at a business I initially had no intention of visiting, I would go inside and make a small purchase as a sort of "payment" for parking on their premises. Now that my conscience was cleared, I quickly reflected on the company's recent bankruptcy filing news. The company that took over Thrifty's decades ago was now on its seemingly last legs. I've had fond memories of both companies, so this visit was kind of bittersweet. Was I all right with this particular location before its demise!?
PURCHASE
Resse's Pretzels Miniature Cups 9.9oz Bag ($5.99): I was a fan of all the yummy sweets throughout the Reese's brand, so when I saw this in the nearly-empty Halloween candy section, I grabbed it because it sounded good and it was the last one so it looked sad there all by itself. Once I finally tore this bag open and shared it with my friends, each tiny cup was packed with crunchy pretzel pieces covered with smooth peanut butter and delectable chocolate. It was as good as expected - yummy! https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=LVCD_bwXBXM5UDwLiU72KA&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw
SERVICE
Because I had no idea what I was going to purchase before I entered, there was no need for any customer assistance. As I whizzed through the store, I came to the candy aisle and my decision was made. I quickly went to the self-checkout counter, paid, and I was out the door in minutes. I saw one employee serving Thrifty's Ice Cream, one cashier, and one other employee stocking the shelves. All was good!
PARKING (FREE)
Located within the Grand Park Plaza, they were on their own standalone corner and had their own private lot with a ton of spots - 'nuff said.
ATMOSPHERE, DÉCOR, AMBIENCE
A medium-sized building that was clean and organized inside with easy directions and labels for each section along with spacious aisles. The pharmacy was at the very back, the refrigerated and frozen coolers also along the back and side walls, the ice cream counter up front close to the registers, and a surprisingly assorted well-stocked liquor section. A decent amount of natural lighting came through the front glass windows and doors while plenty of soul-sucking fluorescent electric ceiling lights covered the rest. I didn't recall seeing any TVs but Top-40 music played in the background. https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=xxKABnVWyX0xms7iHFED6A&userid=8jVT2inwc8GIQ6sH2UG9Vw
ATTIRE
Totally casual, so I would normally be in a t-shirt, boardshorts, and flip-flops.
OVERALL
El Segundo's Grand Ave. Rite Aid location was perfectly fine for my needs although probably wholly not theirs. On my quick casing of the joint, everything was kept clean, organized, and what you'd expect from any other Rite Aid if you've ever been in one. And, they still had Thrifty's Ice Cream, so buy it now while you could! Honestly, I had no idea how long this location would be around since the bankruptcy, so I wished them the best. The prices may be a touch higher due to convenience and economies, and you may not find all the brands out on the market but possibly lesser-known ones. I found very good value based on the prices, service, and experience noted above (TOTAL paid experience was around $6.00 BEFORE any discounts and/or tip). And, they accepted my credit card of choice... AMEX! 4.0 STARS
