Harris Farm Markets opens in Albury with local businesses on board

Harris Farm Markets' massive Albury store will open to the public on Friday after a $12 million build and fit out of the old Bunnings Warehouse on Young Street.

And for joint chief executive Tristan Harris, an all-night effort to get the market ready for the Border to enjoy has been "a long time coming".

"This is really exciting to be finally opening our store here in Albury," he said.

"People hate grocery shopping, but often go to a market on the weekend for fun.

"So why would we create something that people hate doing when we can create something that people can have fun with."

The "fun and engaging" indoor market boasts a large fruit and vegetable section including a veggie shed with living lettuce and herb wall, plus an organic and plant based section for those with vegan preferences.

The Plate and Platter section showcases over 200 local and international cheeses as well as local honey customers can pour themselves. There will also be freshly roasted coffee available every day.

There is an on-site butcher, fresh seafood shop as well fresh farm milk on tap.

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Murray River Smokehouse is just one of a handful of local businesses that have set up shop inside the market which owner Anthony Ainsworth said will hopefully "totally re-imagine" his business.

Milawa Bread have an on-site bakery where they will also be milling their own flour.

Mr Harris said he has known about the business for a while, so when they were looking for local bakers, they were the "obvious choice".

"They will be milling their own flour for their dough right here on site, and I believe the wheat is local as well - how good is that," he said.

Gundowring Ice Cream have had a long-term relationship with Harris Farm Markets and also have their own section with freshly made ice cream available daily.

Rebel Donuts have branched out from their Melbourne base by opening the Albury shopfront.

Owner Ben Swan said they jumped at the opportunity to expand.

"What Harris Farms are doing is really exciting and we wanted to be a part of that," he said.

Mulwala's Blacksmith Provedore have also set up a cafe and bar on site and while owner Lizzy Bayles said her next day off will be Christmas Day - the opportunity was too good to pass up.

"With border closures and restrictions really hurting us during our busiest time, we always had this to look forward to," she said.

"We have put on about 40 new staff which is really great and we can't wait to get stuck into pizzas and coffee and serving drinks to Albury customers."

Harris Farm Markets are open seven days a week from 7am to 10pm.