Berlin Construction Firm Helps to Bring Ferndale Market Fresh to Life
By Editor at May 19, 2024 | 12:00 pm | Print
Work is nearing completion at 45 Chamberlain Highway in Berlin in the former home of Roger’s Marketplace. Samira and Salim Saleh, the owners of Ferndale Market Fresh, are on hand to make sure everything is done so that their customers will be able to have the best experience possible. And the key to make that happen? Berlin’s own Fortunato Construction Group. A general contractor for 26 years, Fortunato Construction is overseeing the repositioning of the entire community center including the “reconstruction” of the space into a brand new niche market.
The objective was to distinguish Ferndale Market Fresh from the previous store, including a “wow” factor when you walk in the door. The floor plan, open ceiling and an entirely new look draws a customer’s attention to the details which are unique and provide a stunning first impression. Putting together the plan for this market was a partnership from start to finish. Samira and Salim explained their vision to the Fortunato team, and under the leadership of Chief Operating Officer and Vice President Rich Fortunato, the Saleh’s vision has come to life. With the support of DEB Realty (the owner) the Fortunato team made the Saleh’s dream a reality.
“We are thrilled with not just the market, but that Samira and Salim chose to work with one of our great companies in town – Fortunato Construction. The more we can get our businesses to collaborate and do business together, we will continue to create jobs and strengthen the Berlin business community”, explained Town Manager Denise McNair.
This was one of the more challenging grocery store projects that Fortunato has ever taken on. This wasn’t a typical “fit out” for a grocery store as they essentially had to remove almost everything that was existing, including most of the concrete floor, ceilings, walls, old underground plumbing and electrical conduit, and all of the former store components. The project included almost every trade with demolition, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, roofing, custom doors, tile, ceiling, flooring, storefront, bathroom specialties, plumbing, refrigeration and sprinkler work, HVAC and a full electrical remodel. All of this work had to be done without disturbing existing tenants next door.
Vince Fortunato, President of Fortunato Construction mentioned the predisposition that many people in Berlin have to do business in town. “The idea of living, working and spending money in Berlin makes sense”, said Vince. In fact, the Town of Berlin is looking to help Berlin businesses to work together with other businesses in town to support each other.
A long-time resident of Berlin, Vince Fortunato pointed out that Fortunato Construction has completed other local projects for Cambridge Specialty, Tomz Corporation, TriStar, Jacunski Humes Architects, EDRO, Cedar Shopping Center reconstruction including Michaels, and soon Petsmart, as well as many others.
