Fresh Choice Richmond to close

Fresh Choice supermarket in the Richmond Mall is set to close in March, ending almost 70 years of history in the town.

In an email to staff seen by Waimea Weekly, owner Gary Watson 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."

It is understood around 70 staff will be affected.

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."

Gary is the third generation of his family to operate 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.

Gary Watson told the Weekly this morning that he can't say much about the closure due to contractual clauses but that his focus was on trying to help staff find new employment.

"Ministry of Social Development has been in touch and I've been contacted personally by people I know in the business community who have reached out and asked for some employees."

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."

Richmond Mall is owned by Nelson-based Tinline, its chief executive Jamie Gaskell confirmed the news to the Weekly this morning.

"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."

Gary says if anyone has jobs that need filling, they can email [email protected]