Jim Gambrill, owner of B&J Apple Market, said the decision behind the store addition is simple.

“The population is growing out in this area, and we’re busting at the seams,” he said. “We need more room.”

An architect presently is working on drawings for the 12,500-square-foot addition to the existing 18,500-square-foot building, which is at the intersection of Ridge Street and U.S. Highway 24-40.

Once they’re complete, the plans will be reviewed by the city. Construction will take about six months, Gambrill said, so the addition could be ready for occupancy soon after the first of next year.

“We’re increasing the produce and the frozen foods and the dairy, and the deli is going to be increase,” Gambrill said.

Shipping and employee parking will be moved to the east side of the store. Gambrill opened his first grocery store in 1972 at Third Street and U.S. 24-40 Highway in the former location of Bitler’s BBQ. The new store opened in 1985.