The wait is over for residents tired of doing their grocery shopping in Orange’s congested central business district.

North Orange Woolworths opens its doors this morning, and store manager Michael Toholke says people can expect a simpler shop.

“I like to think its more family oriented,” Mr Toholke said.

“It’s more open and I’m hoping it will be a much easier shop because its more level and access is easier.”

But the biggest drawcard?

“The parking. There’s ease of parking,” he said.

“We’re hoping it’s not going to be as congested as the other store.”

Staff have devoted the last 20 days to preparing the supermarket for this morning’s official opening.

Shelves have been neatly stocked, while fresh produce was being laid out yesterday and this morning.

Mr Toholke said the store had taken a “back to basics” approach to the layout.

“We’re trying to get back to that corner grocery type of store in terms of the look,” he said.

“For us, it will mean less stock on show - we’ll fill it and rotate it more than we have in the past.”

The new 3200 square metre store has regular Woolworth’s features including a bakery, deli, butcher and seafood unit.

There’s also a 150 square metre Woolworths Liquor store and some new sections, including one for British food.

“We’ve actually got a bigger range of general groceries than the other store,” Mr Toholke said.

“From our point of view, it’s an opportunity to spread Woolworths across both sides of town and give people more access.

“The town is definitely growing, so hopefully we can provide a service to this side of town.”

Today’s official opening is at 7.30 am. Woolworths opens at 8 am.