The long-awaited and much-debated Whole Foods Market in Jamaica Plain opened its doors at 8 a.m. Monday morning.

The store had been scheduled to open Wednesday morning, but preparations went faster than expected and the store opened two days early, according to Heather McCready, public relations manager for the grocer. Below is a press release from the Austin, Texas-based company:

Whole Foods Market (NASDAQ: WFM), the world's leading natural and organic supermarket and America's first national certified organic grocer, opened the doors of the newest location, in Jamaica Plain, today. The store, which spans more than 13,700 square feet and employs 104 full and part time team members will offer the Jamaica Plain community access to the freshest and healthiest local, natural and organic products at an affordable price.

"We are so pleased to open our doors in Hyde Square. We have created a beautiful store that will be a great match for the Jamaica Plain community," says Store Team Leader, Mike Walker. "It is particularly exciting for us to have the chance now to really show our neighbors what Whole Foods Market offers as responsible, active community partners." The new store, located at 413 Centre Street is the result of a complete renovation of the interior of the existing space. Modeled for energy efficiency, Whole Foods Market Jamaica Plain boasts a number of green technologies, including LED lighting and state of the art refrigeration systems. The parking lot, which offers 68 spaces, also has an electric car charging station as well as racks for 15 bikes and a self-service bike repair station.

No two Whole Foods Market stores are alike. Each store is designed to reflect the community it serves. Whole Foods Market Jamaica Plain was designed to echo the vibrant culture of Hyde Square, while paying homage to the Googie style of architecture that makes the building so unique.

The products carried in Whole Foods Market Jamaica Plain are also a reflection of the community. From locally produced to ethnically influenced selections, the shelves are stocked with affordably priced products that meet the company's strict quality standards.

Along with the grocery, produce, meat, seafood, specialty, bakery and Whole Body departments, Whole Foods Market Jamaica Plain offers an expanded bulk department featuring a wide selection of beans, grains, nuts, seeds and dried fruits. For customers looking for convenience, Whole Foods Market Jamaica Plain offers a great variety of prepared foods, including a large salad bar and hot bar, as well as a pizza oven and Panini station.