SASKATOON – With shelves almost entirely bare, the only grocery store in Saskatoon’s City Park neighbourhood opened for the final time Tuesday morning. Loblaws confirmed the closure of the Shop Easy in September, citing many unprofitable years at the 7th Avenue location.
Many residents in the core neighbourhood say the store was good for picking up one or two items, not necessarily a full load of groceries.
“Now I don’t have that option. I have to get in my car and drive to some place to pick up, even a quart of milk or something like that,” said Daniela Tsintziras, who typically walks to the store once or twice a week.
Seniors and people without vehicles will also be in a tough position with the store closed,” she added.
Loblaws previously held a caveat on the location that would prevent another grocery store from taking over the property. However, in a statement provided to Global News, the retailer has pledged to remove that barrier.
“The decision to close the Shop Easy in Saskatoon was not an easy one and we understand the value it has in the community,” said Mario Fatica, vice-president of planning and development approvals with Loblaws real estate.
“After hearing from members of the community, we have agreed that we will not impose language that would restrict the future sale of food products at this location.”
READ MORE: Loblaw closing 52 stores across its sprawling retail empire
The company reports having received “considerable interest” in the property, but did not state whether any potential buyers wanted to sell groceries.
Saskatoon city council could offer incentives for someone interested in buying the location to sell food. The city could offer a tax break, along with waiving utility connection and building permits fees, according to city councillor Darren Hill.
“This was one of the last grocery stores in the immediate downtown area,” Hill said.
“It certainly will be a negative for the community.”
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