OAKLAND, CA — Now, when customers shop for food at Wally’s World Market, they can add postage to the grocery list.

On Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 10:00 a.m., customers will be treated to a grand opening ceremony by store owner Ahmad Kazimi and U.S. Postal Service officials as Wally’s World Market at 5559 Claremont Avenue, Oakland, CA  94618, becomes the first and only Village Post Office (VPO) in Oakland.

Kazimi opened up Wally’s World Market 20 years ago. When he learned about the Village Post Office concept, he felt it would be a perfect fit for his store and his customers. “My Market is located between two Post Offices, and my customers kept asking me if I sold postage stamps and other USPS products and services,” said Kazimi. “I decided to open up as a Village Post Office for the convenience of my neighborhood.” 

Customers are able to purchase Forever Stamps, drop off prepaid mail and packages and pick up Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes and envelopes. A valued convenience for customers is that many VPOs offer expanded business hours, including Sundays and holidays. Wally’s World Market is open seven days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Village Post Offices are normally located in non-Postal Service establishments – such as an existing community business, grocery stores and gas stations – and are run by that establishment.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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