Sobeys customers in Stratford will soon have more choices as the store is set to undergo renovations and an expansion beginning in late July.

Stratford council just approved the store's application for expansion.

The store will increase from 40,000 square feet to more than 50,000.

The expansion will transform the store into the Island's first Sobeys Extra, with expanded produce, bakery and deli departments and an organic and gluten-free section.

Shauna Selig, communications manager for Sobeys Atlantic, said the "timing was just right" to offer a Sobeys Extra on P.E.I.

"The store itself was in need of a refresh. It's time to do some renovations there. And, we wanted to introduce a Sobeys Extra to the Island. So, it just really worked out well with the timing," Selig said.

The store will also have a well-being counsellor, a chef cooking meals, a dietitian and a cheese ambassador.

Selig wasn't sure how many extra staff would be needed at the expanded store.

She said the store will remain open during the renovations, which are expected to be completed in early 2017.