Navy Exchange Service Command installs micro market in Iceland hangar
Navy Exchange Service Command has opened its first expeditionary micro market at Keflavik Air Base in Keflavik, Iceland, to provide self-service food and essentials for U.S. military and NATO forces operating in the area.
The micro market, which opened on March 10, offers grab-and-go snacks, coffee, cold beverages and frozen meals along with a limited selection of health, beauty and laundry items. It is located in a 70-year-old hangar and operates as a 24/7 self-service location.
Retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, CEO of NEXCOM, said the command was approached in 2023 about supporting rotational forces flying out of Keflavik and determined the micro market model fit the need.
Expeditionary micro markets are designed for remote, temporary or mission-driven locations, places where a full cafeteria, staffed store or regular retail outlet is not practical. Rotational forces are units or detachments that deploy to a location for a set period and are replaced by another unit, rather than being permanently stationed there. At Keflavik Air Base, rotational forces typically refers to aircraft crews and support personnel who cycle in and out to conduct missions, then rotate home while another team takes their place.
NEXCOM typically opens micro markets in Navy facilities that serve many people but have limited food options. NEXCOM operates micro markets in Navy hospitals, aircraft hangars, barracks, unaccompanied housing, office spaces and shipyards.
Bianchi said Navy Exchange Service Command plans to pursue additional expeditionary micro market sites to support service members in more locations.
The new micro market was first reported by Kristine Sturkie of NEXCOM.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoW) visual information does not imply or constitute DoW endorsement.