The Save-A-Lot grocery store located within the Broadway Market, one of the limited-chain grocery outlets on the East Side, is apparently on the verge of shutting down.
This situation indicates a wider contraction by the company, which initially ran approximately 900 stores nationwide.
The potential shutdown of this store raises concerns about residents' access to affordable groceries.
Handwritten Signs Mark Troubles at Save-A-Lot
Ron Horrigan, the owner of the Save-A-Lot store located in the Broadway Market, has revealed that he is six months behind on rent payments. He has also been grappling with a significant increase in shoplifting incidents. This information corroborates a recent report by The Buffalo News.
WKBW reports that visitors to the store were greeted with handwritten signs declaring "Store closing" prominently displayed at the entrance. Inside, many shelves stood nearly bare, signaling the impending shutdown.
Meanwhile, despite financial difficulties, Horrigan actively seeks to keep his Save-A-Lot store open. He shared with 2 On Your Side that his discussions with the market's manager and city officials have been promising. However, he emphasized the need for financial assistance to maintain operations, as he has been using his funds to sustain the store.
Horrigan expressed a deep affection for his customers, though he pointed out that the misconduct of a few has created problems for many.
Notably, he has struggled with increased thefts, which he and store manager Destiny Bowden identified as a significant issue, contradicting Councilman Mitch Nowakowski's assertion that theft is not a major concern.
Bowden highlighted local law enforcement responsiveness challenges, noting that police often arrive too late to apprehend the shoplifters. Despite Horrigan's efforts to curb theft by hiring security, he faced additional problems, alleging that some security personnel colluded with employees to facilitate theft.
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Since the onset of the pandemic, Horrigan has observed a worsening trend in shoplifting, describing it as if people believe they have a "license to steal." He clarified a common misconception among thieves who think insurance covers theft losses, whereas such expenses come directly from his pocket.
Bowden further described the shoplifters as diverse, ranging from men and women to young and old, with incidents frequently escalating to physical altercations. The thefts reportedly occur up to five times daily, complicating the store's operations.
Customers and Employees Face Uncertainty as Local Save-A-Lot Closes
According to The U.S. Sun, as the Save-A-Lot store in the Broadway Market prepares to close, its employees are beginning to search for new jobs.
This shutdown will mean that residents of Buffalo's Eastside will have only two major grocery stores remaining, Aldi and Tops, limiting their shopping choices.
Shoppers were caught off guard this Tuesday, dismayed to learn about the impending closure that could happen as soon as the end of the week. One shopper expressed disbelief and concern over the sudden news, questioning what the community would do next.
Another frequent visitor of the store highlighted its affordability, noting how its prices were manageable for everyone's budget. The closure is particularly troubling for the elderly in the community, as another shopper pointed out.
With fewer nearby options, those without cars will face significant challenges, needing to rely on public transportation or other means to access essential groceries.
Additionally, there might still be hope for the Broadway Market Save-A-Lot. Horrigan and city officials have scheduled a meeting for Wednesday, as reported by 7 News, to discuss potential solutions.
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