Photo by: Tory Trahan

A new retail location is coming to the former Colonel Cafe space in the corridor of Powell and White Hall.

Colonel Express will be a self-checkout market, offering snacks and beverages for a quick grab and go option on campus. It is estimated to be opened in late October.

The market is a collaboration between Coca-Cola, Nicholls State University and Sodexo. It will offer a diverse selection of packaged snacks, Coca-Cola products, coffee, healthy snacks and fresh grab-and-go items.

The projected hours of operation are from 6:30 a.m to 9:00 p.m.

Janna Andrus, Marketing Coordinator for Nicholls Dining, said that this new location could be a “game-changer” for the campus.

“The concept offers a convenient solution for those seeking food and beverage options during extended hours of operation when other outlets may be closed,” said Andrus.

Miranda Danos, a mass communication senior from Larose, La., said that the hours are great for those who are up late and need a snack.

“I think it’s great for those with social anxiety, and it’s great for the night owls as well that want to stay up late or are studying, and need a snack,” Danos said.

Self-checkout theft is a huge problem around the retail business, but Andrus says that this store will be monitored heavily.

“The store will be monitored 24/7 with digital video cameras. The system is designed to catch all types of theft,” said Andrus. “Individuals caught stealing will be reported to campus police and student affairs for further investigation.”

The Grid will remain open in the student union at its regular hours of operation, which are Mondays through Thursdays from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.