Fresh Choice Richmond owner Gary Watson says the support from the community has been “astounding” since it was announced his supermarket will close in March.
It was announced last Wednesday that Fresh Choice in the Richmond Mall would close, prompting a wave of support for the supermarket owners and staff.
“Since the article [on Nelson App] came out the support has been insane. Customers have been in and are being very supportive,” says Gary.
Gary and Lisa Watson announced the decision not to renew their lease to staff last Tuesday.
In an email to staff seen by Waimea Weekly, Gary said that they were unable to get a new lease that suited the needs of the business, and that the supermarket would likely close on March 17.
“It breaks our hearts that we have to end our family business, however we were unable to agree to a layout/lease with the landlord that would let us continue to thrive in the short and long term.”
He refused to comment on the details of the lease to the Weekly, saying he was unable to comment publicly.
It is understood around 70 staff will be affected by the closure.
A staff member spoken to by the Weekly says that staff are “gutted and upset”.
“We’ve been kept pretty well informed but we’re all upset. For each other, for the community and for Gary and Lisa.”
The closure will end 66 years of Watson family ownership of a supermarket in Richmond.
The business started with his grandparents Ivan and Lyalla Watson on Queen St, before his father Ian moved it to the then Village Mall and Gary and his brother Matt ran it as Fresh Choice in the Richmond Mall. Gary bought Matt out of the business a decade ago and has run it with his wife Lisa since.
Richmond Mall is owned by Nelson-based Tinline, its chief executive Jamie Gaskell confirmed the news to the Weekly last week.
“I can confirm that the lease has come to an end. We are thankful to Gary and Lisa for their contribution to the Richmond Mall over the years and wish them all the best for the future.”
On a statement on its Facebook page, Richmond Mall said the space will undergo “extensive refurbishment”.
“While it’s too early to reveal any details, we are excited to share that Tinline is planning a transformational redevelopment, reimagining Richmond Mall as a vibrant and exciting retail and dining destination that benefits and serves our local community, and the many visitors we serve from the broader catchment.”
The mall says it hope to unveil the concept and design of the proposed changes within the first half of this year.
Gary says his focus on the next month or so is helping his staff find new employment.
“I’ve had about 40 emails from people wanting good staff so that has been great, they come from other supermarkets, hospitality and even manufacturing, so quite a mix.”
He says he hopes the community will continue to support the store.
“Really hoping that the community supports us in trying to clear out our stock over the next few weeks. We’re going to have to run the stock down. I hope people support us to the end.”
