Achi news desk-
National grocery chain Sobeys says it will not reopen its Foodland store in Colborne, Ont., following a May 2023 fire.
Cramahe Township announced that the corporation had informed them that this was “not a viable option.”
An early morning fire on May 24, 2023, destroyed the store on Toronto Street and also damaged nearby businesses in the village just east of Cobourg.
The city grocery store is the only one in the village of about 1,500. The township of 6,300 residents has other grocery stores nearby including in Brighton and Cobourg.
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“While we are disappointed by this news, we know the strength and potential of our dynamic and growing community,” said Mayor Mandy Martin.
“Colborne has successfully faced all kinds of economic challenges in its 230 plus years of foundation. Now, we encourage, and welcome all interested parties to consider this investment opportunity.”
Martin says the township received a letter on April 23 from Sobeys through Mark Deans, Ontario director of development and operations and Krista Payne, Ontario vice president of operations stating that it was a “difficult decision” not to reopen the store.
“Unfortunately, reopening is not a viable option,” the letter states. “We understand that this will affect the community, and so we wanted you to hear directly from us so that you are informed and ready to answer any questions from residents.”
Sobeys says the franchise owner and store operator are meeting with staff, noting that those who transferred to work at Cobourg Foodland “will retain those roles.”
Sobeys says it has been looking at options for a new grocery store in the village.
“In addition, we are committed to supporting the remaining employees as they transfer to another store or pursue other employment and career opportunities,” the letter states.
“We wish to sincerely thank the community of Colborne for their loyal patronage of the store over the years, and the dedication of our fellow members in service to the community.”
& copy 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
