Oak Ridge Market Changes Hands, New Owners Promise Makeover

As of Monday, Oak Ridge Market, on Crooks Road near Webster, is Northwood Marketplace.

"We picked the name Northwood Marketplace because we are a community market," said owner Jim Esshaki. Northwood, of course, is the name of a street, subdivision and elementary school, among other things, in Royal Oak. "We want everyone to know that we plan to support the neighborhood." 

Esshaki and brother, John Esshaki, bought the building and plan to manage it.

"One of us will be here at all times."

Short-term plans include making improvements on the inside, bringing in new food items and equipment, and offering a selection of "grab and go" foods.

A rendering near the entrance to the store shows the plan for a major exterior renovation that is also in the works.

"The store is tired. It could use some TLC," said Esshaki, who has been in the business for 30 years.

Esshaki also promises to bring prices down.

"We plan to be competitive with Kroger and Walmart," he said.