War clouds loom, and this time it's a good thing.

Just as skyrocketing gas prices and other factors are fueling alarming inflation in the grocery aisles, all around us are unmistakable signs that a new supermarket war is about to break out, and consumers should be happy about that.

For too long, the Giant and Safeway chains were pretty much the only game in town, at least as far as Columbia was concerned. But now some upstarts are muscling in on that territory: Harris Teeter opens in Kings Contrivance later this month. And the New York-based Wegmans plans to open a super store at the intersection of Snowden River Parkway and McGaw Road, though its zoning case is still under appeal.

Trendy Trader Joe's has already set up shop in the Gateway Overlook complex.

Don't think the established grocers haven't noticed. The Giant in Owen Brown has just renovated, and when the new stores get going, you can bet Safeway and Giant will be hustling to keep their customers.

While some have legitimate concerns about the effect of new stores on traffic and the institution of the village center, there's no denying that such competition is bound to benefit consumers at a time when they need some help.

Let the battle commence.

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