Last month, the Keys learned that the Kmart stores in Marathon and Key Largo will be closing. Immediately, locals began imagining (or wishing for) its successor. The Keys Weekly conducted its own poll for a definitive answer — not just in the “Big Box” category, but other national offerings such as fast food and grocery store chains. (This list takes into consideration that we are already well-served by Publix, Winn-Dixie, The Home Depot, Walgreens, CVS, etc.)
The results were very clear in every category except for dine-in restaurant options. About 350 residents took our quiz. See the results below. Also, ahem, Target … are you hearing us?
What big box store should open in the Keys?
Target 57%
Walmart 39.5%
Amazon fulfillment center 3.5%
What warehouse club should open in the Keys?
Costco 57.7%
Sam’s Club 25.6%
BJ’s Wholesale Club 16.7%
What general goods (home store, electronics, etc.) store should open in the Keys?
HomeGoods 57.5%
Michaels 19.4%
IKEA 12%
BrandsMart USA 11%
What fast food chain should open in the Keys?
Chick-fil-A 42.4%
Panera Bread 29.8%
Pollo Tropical 15.9%
Chipotle Mexican Grill 12%
What chain grocery store should open in the Keys?
Trader Joe’s 38.1%
Whole Foods Market 22.8%
Aldi 22.8%
Walmart Neighborhood Market 16.3%
What chain outdoor shop should open in the Keys?
Dick’s Sporting Goods 51.4%
Cabela’s 36.9%
Academy Sports + Outdoors 11.7%
What chain dine-in restaurant should open in the Keys?
Texas Roadhouse 25.1%
The Cheesecake Factory 21.6%
Olive Garden 20.1%
Carrabba’s Italian Grill 11%
Bonefish Grill 11%
Buffalo Wild Wings 11.3%
