When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Safeway
Why Safeway is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Safeway, a prominent American supermarket chain with a rich history dating back to 1915, is an excellent place for friends and families to meet and shop together. Known for its extensive variety of grocery items, Safeway offers more than just food; customers can enjoy specialty departments including bakery, delicatessen, floral sections, and pharmacy services all under one roof. Some locations even feature Starbucks coffee shops and fuel centers, providing added convenience for shoppers planning a full trip of errands. Safeway stores mostly serve the Western United States and parts of the Mid-Atlantic region, making it accessible to many communities. The stores cater to diverse shopping needs with fresh produce, dairy, meats, frozen foods, snack foods, and liquor, alongside services like dry cleaning and photographic processing. Their commitment to quality and selection makes Safeway a reliable meeting point where friends can shop and enjoy a casual coffee or meal together. Additionally, Safeway offers modern conveniences such as contactless curbside pickup (DriveUp & Go) and grocery delivery services through partners, enabling a flexible and safe shopping experience. Headquarters in Pleasanton, California, and affiliation with parent company Albertsons have helped Safeway maintain consistent service excellence and innovation in retail.
Here's what people think of Safeway
As of recent, Safeway holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2299 reviews.
Customer reviews of Safeway reflect a generally positive shopping experience, with many praising the store's wide product selection, quality bakery and deli items, and the convenience of multiple service options including pharmacy and fuel centers. Positive feedback often highlights the helpfulness of store staff, the cleanliness of stores, and the availability of promotions and club card discounts which make shopping economical. Customers also appreciate Safeway’s integration of Starbucks coffee shops, which enhances their in-store experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on issues such as inconsistent stock levels, occasional slow checkout lines, and challenges with the grocery delivery service transitioning to third-party platforms like Instacart and DoorDash. Some reviewers have noted difficulties in customer service responsiveness, particularly relating to online and delivery orders. While Safeway is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has received complaints about unresolved issues, many customers remain loyal due to its product variety and convenient store locations. Overall, Safeway maintains a solid reputation as a reliable supermarket chain, with most customers finding it a comfortable and practical place to meet their grocery needs and enjoy specialty services in a friendly environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Aracely Garibay
Buyer beware. It's not a reflection on the brand but more the location. The traffic at the store is ...less than reputable. You're accosted by panhandlers the moment you leave your vehicle. Then, you are made to feel shame if you provide some type of financial assistance. *someone asked me if I would buy them a salad from the deli, then promptly added or items outside of what I had offered and then was made to feel like I was wrong for not offering an unlimited food order. (The salad turned into fried chicken, fries, 3 sides, and sliced ham to take home for sandwiches later.) I will also add that the patrons that frequent this location/establishment are now respectable or responsible people. I was literally hit with a vehicle while I was placing my 18 month old child in his car seat *door wide open with vacant stalls on either side. Luckily, my legs were above the door, so I sustained minimal injuries. If not, I would have lost a limb, but the door hit hard on my arm. I did not press charges *picture attached. Ultimately, I don't want the store to suffer because it is a wonderful provider, but be aware and mindful of your surroundings.
James Microsoft
Moises helped me out at checkout today and did a really solid job. He bagged everything really nicely nothing was squished or thrown around like I’ve had happen before. He even offered to help me take my groceries out to the car without me asking, which was super nice. Just really friendly and respectful. You can tell he actually cares about what he’s doing.
Bruce Freedle
This is my regular Safeway store. I love the staff there. Products are good to excellent, especially meaning bakery, produce, & meat. The pharmacy is way better than it used to be, much better staff. My only issue is they are often out of the digital coupon items & getting rain checks is much harder now.
David Dillon
I had a negative experience in this store today. Not enough human cashiers. Today at about 1:30, I went to this store to get a few things. I prefer s human cashiers, so I pulled my cart into the cashier where Kim V was working. She's already dealing with a couple of slow customers, and then she's suddenly become to help somebody over near the liquor section. Someone behind me called for a cashier to be opened because the line was back to the meats. And by this time, even I get impatient. I'm a customer, and I've been waiting too long. I beckon Kim V back, and she gets an attitude with me. But I'm the customer, I'm not going to be shut down nor shut up, so we have words. She gets mad and looks like she's shutting down the cashier machine, saying, "I dont get enough money for this!" And stuff like that. She was totally impatient. So she gets Keith from Customer Service to help me. And you guys need many more people like hime, there. Very nice and professional. You guys are poorly managed over there. There are not enough people to help out when it gets busy. And your managers haven't trained people to keep their cool or keep the customer first. As a customer, I hate it when a cashier walks away to go help someone else on the team. That always leaves me thinking my money dont matter! Why am I now the least priority? Please stop doing that to your customers. I could have gone to automated service, but I prefer personalized service. Please get better at doing that. And support Kim V a little more. I put her off, and I admit that. But the bigger problem has got to be the management.
Esther Hunter
I recently moved here from the east valley. Today was the first time I've gone to this safeway. The store seems clean. The stock however wasn't the greatest. I don't know if perhaps they hadn't yet stocked the shelves fully due to it being Sunday, or if it was normal. The young men working as courtesy clerks all seemed nice and friendly. They were really the only ones. In general the staff doesn't seem very happy. The issue however was checking out. I went to the self check out. The young lady (Yoselyn) was not friendly and had an attitude. (Another member of my household had gone in earlier and had the same experience with her) I went to start scanning my items and asked her about bags since there were none at any of the self checkout. She said we're out. I asked how was I suppose to get my groceries to my car without bags? She shrugged. After a moment she told me I could walk over to the register and ask them for some. Which I did. I proceeded to check out my groceries and leave. The real question here is, If I have to scan my groceries, go FIND bags and then bag them and put up with attitude, why am I not being paid by safeway? It would have been nice if there had been a manager present to take control of the situation and help the young people navigate the problem. I'm hoping the next visit will be improved.
How to reach Safeway
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Website: None
Why Safeway may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Safeway stands out as an exceptional venue to gather with friends and family because it combines convenience, variety, and quality in a way that makes group meetups easy, enjoyable, and memorable. Whether you are planning a casual get-together, a themed party, or an impromptu hangout, Safeway offers everything you need under one roof or through their seamless online services. Its 4.2 rating, based on over 2,200 reviews, reflects consistent customer satisfaction, especially valuing the quality of produce, friendly staff, and excellent product selection. The store’s extensive array of food options—from fresh fruits and vegetables to prepared party trays and gourmet selections—caters to all tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for hosting groups with varied appetites. Additionally, Safeway’s loyalty program, Safeway for U™, offers personalized discounts and rewards, which means you can maximize your budget while treating your friends to delicious food and treats. All these features create a welcoming environment where a casual grocery run turns into a group event filled with excitement and anticipation for great food and fun.
What activities are available for group meetups at Safeway?
Safeway offers a range of activities and conveniences tailored to group gatherings that set it apart from ordinary grocery stores. One of the foremost attractions is its extensive selection of party trays and prepared foods, perfect for events like game day parties, picnics, or family celebrations. You can pick up trays of sandwiches, fried chicken, fresh fruits, antipasto, macaroni salad, potato salad, and other crowd-pleasing finger foods instantly, saving you time on meal preparations. Beyond ready-to-eat options, Safeway’s fresh produce section encourages fun group activities such as selecting ingredients for grilling, like fresh corn or seasonal fruits that can be transformed into grilled treats. This makes Safeway an excellent hub for planning interactive cooking or grilling gatherings, where friends join in the preparation process. The store also supports meal planning with thousands of recipes accessible online, which you can explore together to design a menu that suits your group’s tastes and dietary needs. For those who prefer digital convenience, Safeway’s online ordering with delivery or DriveUp & Go™ pickup lets groups shop and prepare together remotely, heightening the social experience even without being physically side by side.
Why is Safeway perfect for a group shopping experience?
Safeway’s well-structured and customer-centered approach makes it especially suitable for groups shopping together. Its comprehensive loyalty program, Safeway for U™, allows each member to benefit from personalized deals, digital coupons, and rewards that accumulate with every purchase. This means when a group shops collectively, everyone enjoys savings on grocery staples and treats, making the experience more affordable and rewarding. The program further incentivizes participation with contests, promotions, and the ability to earn points that can be redeemed for free products or discounts on gas, which adds value to group purchases. Additionally, Safeway’s store layout and product variety ensure a smooth and fast shopping experience; you can find everything needed for a gathering in one place—meats for the grill, fresh produce, snacks, beverages, desserts, and more—reducing the need for multiple stops and enabling groups to shop efficiently together. The option to order online and pick up in-store or at curbside through DriveUp & Go™ accelerates the process for busy groups who may want to spend more time socializing and less time navigating aisles. Overall, the synergy of convenience, savings, and product abundance makes Safeway a prime location to engage in group shopping.
How can Safeway enhance your group's party planning?
Safeway excels at taking the stress out of party planning, especially for groups aiming to throw a memorable event. The availability of an array of party trays and easy-to-serve foods means you don't have to spend hours preparing dishes—perfect for those who want to focus on socializing rather than cooking. Safeway’s seasonal offers and ideas, like Labor Day grilling specials featuring fresh meats and creative appetizers such as grilled fruit skewers, add a festive flair and can inspire your theme or menu choices. Its inventory supports diverse culinary preferences, whether you want classic BBQ sides, health-conscious salads, or indulgent desserts, increasing the chances of pleasing every guest. Furthermore, Safeway offers easy access to ingredients for DIY meals that groups can prepare together, turning meal prep itself into a fun social activity. Plus, the Safeway for U™ app features meal planning tools and recipe suggestions that help your group coordinate what to buy and how to prepare it. With these resources, Safeway simplifies coordination and ensures your event runs smoothly from grocery shopping to the last bite.
What makes Safeway’s food selection ideal for diverse groups?
One of Safeway’s strengths is the incredible breadth of its food selection, catering to groups with varying tastes and dietary needs. You can find fresh organic produce alongside conventional fruits and vegetables, meats and plant-based alternatives, gluten-free snacks, dairy and non-dairy options, and specialty international ingredients. This diversity means your group can enjoy a well-rounded meal without compromise, and those with food restrictions or preferences won’t feel left out. For example, Safeway stocks gluten-free salads such as potato salad or antipasto, perfect for side dishes, alongside more decadent options like fried chicken trays, ensuring everyone can find something appealing. The presence of in-season fruits and vegetables allows for fresh and vibrant dishes that reflect the time of year, ideal for gatherings that emphasize natural flavors. The availability of ready-made meals and simple prep ingredients combined makes it easy for groups to mix and match items, customize their meals, and enjoy a variety of flavors during the meetup. This inclusivity transforms Safeway from just a grocery store into a versatile culinary destination for any occasion.
How does technology and online service improve the Safeway meetup experience?
By embracing technology, Safeway enhances group shopping and gathering in innovative ways. The Safeway for U™ loyalty program is integrated with a user-friendly app, allowing members to access personalized deals, redeem digital coupons, and track their points easily from their smartphones. This digital efficiency means groups can coordinate purchases by sharing deals or shopping lists, which streamlines the planning and budgeting process. Online ordering, with options for home delivery or DriveUp & Go™ curbside pickup, allows groups who cannot meet in person to still collaborate on meal planning and shopping remotely. This feature is particularly convenient for coordinating large or last-minute gatherings because it saves time and ensures you get everything you need without missing items. The app also provides thousands of recipes, which groups can explore together to discover new dishes or classics to prepare, fostering a shared culinary experience even before the meetup. Overall, Safeway’s technological enhancements make group planning smarter, faster, and more connected.
Why is the atmosphere at Safeway conducive to social gatherings?
Though primarily a grocery store, Safeway creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction and group engagement. Its clean, well-organized aisles and clear signage make navigating the store easier, so less time is spent finding products and more time can be dedicated to enjoying the company of friends or family. Many locations host special events, promotions, or tastings, which can add an element of fun and discovery to visits. The presence of friendly and knowledgeable staff enhances the experience by offering assistance, recommendations, and sometimes personalized service for group orders or special dietary needs. Moreover, the layout often allows groups to spread out comfortably without feeling crowded, which is important for longer shopping outings or event preparation stops. The positive customer reviews frequently highlight the welcoming environment and high-quality customer service, factors that improve the overall experience of visiting Safeway as a collective. Such a setting supports socializing, collaboration, and shared enjoyment, making Safeway more than just a place to shop, but a hub for group activity.
How does Safeway support sustainable and health-conscious group choices?
Safeway recognizes the growing importance of sustainability and health, providing numerous options that align with these values, which appeals to conscientious groups. The availability of organic produce, sustainably sourced seafood and meats, and many plant-based products ensures the group can make environmentally friendly food choices. Health-conscious shoppers can find low-fat, low-sodium, and non-GMO options alongside fresh fruits and vegetables, which are essential for balanced meals. Many Safeway stores also feature products with clear labeling about ingredients and origins, helping groups make informed choices quickly. By supporting local producers and seasonal items, Safeway promotes freshness and reduces environmental impact, enriching the quality of food served at your gatherings. For groups focused on wellness or special diets, these choices provide peace of mind and enhance the dining experience by aligning with their values.
What added perks can groups enjoy at Safeway?
Beyond excellent products and services, Safeway offers additional perks that enhance group meetups. Many stores offer contest entries and reward programs where members can win prizes such as free groceries or airline tickets, adding excitement to shopping trips. The Safeway for U™ program includes periodic promotions like double or triple points on featured products, giving groups more value from their combined purchases. Newly joining members receive welcome offers and birthday treats, and the program provides free monthly items, all of which contribute to the fun and benefit of shopping as a group. Delivery and pickup discounts for first-time users make trying Safeway’s online convenience even more appealing when organizing group events. These perks not only help groups save money but also foster an engaging shopping experience distinctive to Safeway.
In conclusion, Safeway is an outstanding place to rally with friends due to its comprehensive offerings of ready-made foods, fresh produce, personalized savings, and seamless online services. It supports diverse group needs through its variety of healthy, indulgent, and sustainable food choices while creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for social interactions. The added convenience of meal planning tools, rewards programs, and flexible pickup or delivery options further enhance the experience, making Safeway much more than a grocery store—a true hub for joyful, stress-free gatherings.