Sprouts Farmers Market opens in former 99 Cents Only store

Sprouts Farmers Market opened its doors at Bristol and Warner on October 23, 2026. The store occupies the space formerly held by 99 Cents Only Stores. The new location offers organic produce, specialty groceries, bulk foods, and wellness products to Santa Ana residents.

The transition from discount retail to grocery shopping took less than two years. When 99 Cents Only Stores announced its closures in 2024, the City of Santa Ana’s WORK Center team activated its Rapid Response program. Staff connected affected employees with employment resources and alternative training services.

The city stated that this effort helped workers move forward after their jobs ended. The opening of Sprouts marks a renewed business activity in that specific neighborhood. City officials noted that the Santa Ana WORK Center and Economic Development teams continue to support workers through layoffs and new investment opportunities.

Santa Ana’s downtown area has also seen growth in the hospitality sector. Sonder, a restaurant and hi-fi listening bar, recently received coverage in the Orange County Register. The business was founded by siblings Lamson and Diane Nguyen. They combine Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine with creative cocktails and music.

Sonder is in its second year of operation. The owners incorporate family recipes and curated decor into the dining experience. The venue contributes to the local culinary and nightlife scene in Downtown Santa Ana.

The city is also making land available for private development. The Public Works Agency released Request for Proposals No. 27-036 for the purchase of vacant City-owned properties. The list includes nine sites: two commercial locations, one professional office site, and one transit corridor mixed-use site. Interested parties can view property details on the new Surplus Land Dashboard.

Local businesses are utilizing city resources to expand their operations. Bitesize Enterprise LLC, a print and design studio in the historic Santora Building, received a grant from the City’s Small Business Incentive Program. Owners Tristan and Yvonne used the funds to cover startup expenses like equipment and materials. The grant helped them stabilize their workflow without taking on additional debt.

The city will host a Business Connection Lunch on November 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Santa Ana. The event is organized by the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development team. Registration costs $30 for Chamber members and $40 for non-members. Additionally, the Blading Cup USA roller skating competition is scheduled for November 6 and 7 at Yost Parking Lot.