New Starbucks in Harmar preps for opening

Harmar residents will be able to get their java at another Starbucks as the franchise is set to open its newest freestanding location on Freeport Road on Friday.

Store manager Keri Chitester said her crew just started getting things organized Tuesday morning. She said the store’s focus is on hiring employees and getting everything together. Chitester said the location does not have an estimate on how many employees it will hire.

“Everything has been a blur,” she said. “We look forward to opening.”

Harmar Supervisor Bob Seibert said it was slow moving getting an opening date for the Starbucks. He said the “now hiring” sign had been up for quite some time. He thinks the coffee chain will be a great addition to the area. He is curious about how it will affect traffic once the store opens.

As more businesses look to open, Seibert thinks the township has become more well-rounded.

“Harmar continues to be a growing community with businesses moving in,” he said. “It does help us tremendously and gives a nice blend for the community.”

Land development for the Starbucks building was reviewed and approved by Harmar Township in March 2021, township engineer Matt Pitsch said. News of the Starbucks coming was first announced in July 2021. Horizon Properties Group, LLC/Harmarville Retail Associates is the owner of the building. Another Starbucks is housed inside the Target in the plaza area further down Freeport Road.

Seibert said a Jersey Mike’s Subs is slated to open next door to the new Starbucks.