Nov. 10, 2025  

On October 29, the community of Utqiaġvik celebrated the grand opening of AC Stuaqpak, the 38th Alaska Commercial Company (ACC) store, marking a partnership between ACC and Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC) to strengthen food security and community services in the northern region.

Pictured above: Opening day ribbon cutting and seven-tier cake at the new store. 

The community came together for a celebration featuring opening remarks, a store blessing, and a ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests enjoyed samples from different departments, a seven-tier cake, giveaways every two hours, and a grand prize draw.

Pictured above: Winners of various opening day contests. 

The new store offers a selection of freshly cut and packaged meat options, an expanded produce section, a limited deli/bakery assortment, and general merchandise essentials — all designed to meet immediate community needs as part of the store’s Phase 1 renovations.
 
ACC has a long history of serving Utqiaġvik and, in recent years, operated from a smaller store in the area. AC Stuaqpak’s return to the building long recognized as the community’s primary grocery store marks a huge milestone.       

Pictured above: AC Stuaqpak store team members on opening day. 

“We are thrilled to be back in the main store in Utqiaġvik, a place that holds deep history for ACC and the community,” said Kyle Hill, President of Alaska Commercial Company.

Dr. Pearl K. Brower, President/CEO of UIC, shared similar excitement, saying,“We are proud to work with Alaska Commercial Company to re-establish this building as a community hub while ensuring our community has access to the food and services they need.”

ACC and UIC will continue to work together in the coming years to complete Phase 2 enhancements, transforming the store into a modern, full-service grocery and general merchandise destination for the community.