British grocery chain, "Fresh and Easy" is looking at opening several locations in the Central Valley, one of which will be Downtown Fresno at Tulare and R, the former site of the "Old Fresno Hofbrau."

This is Tulare and R Street in Downtown Fresno, the former site of the "Old Fresno Hofbrau."

Today, it sits undeveloped, nothing more than a parking lot and dirt.

But within a year that will all change.

To a 15,000 square foot, Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market, backed by British grocery chain, Tesco, the world's third largest retailer.

"Fresh and Easy" currently operates more than 60 stores throughout Southern California, Nevada and Arizona.

Smaller than the typical supermarket, about the size of a Trader Joe's.

Only 20 to 30 people are employed at each store and each cash register is self check out only, to help cut costs.

Nearby residents say they're excited about being able to shop within walking distance of where they live.

Groundbreaking for the new "Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market on Tulare and R will take place in 2 weeks.

The new store is expected to be open for business by the beginning of next year.

Today Fresno City Council member Henry T. Perea called the addition of this grocery, "an historical milestone for Downtown Fresno."

Click on the video link to watch Preston Phillips' live report.