Recent news indicates that Family Fare, a well-known grocery chain, is closing two of its store locations, impacting the Omaha and Glenwood communities. This development has sparked discussions among local residents, particularly concerning the implications for grocery options in the affected areas.
One of the closures is at the Family Fare store located at 7402 N 30th St in Omaha. According to local sources, the store is set to close its doors on February 20th. This closure is particularly concerning for residents in Northeast Omaha, as it will leave Baker’s as potentially the only readily accessible grocery option for those with limited transportation in the immediate vicinity. The news has raised worries about reduced grocery access and the potential strain on the remaining local options.
Adding to the concern, another Family Fare location in Glenwood, Iowa, is also slated for closure. While details surrounding the Glenwood closure are still emerging, this indicates a broader trend for the supermarket chain in the region. The Glenwood store’s closure is especially noteworthy as it is situated in the town square area.
The reasons behind these closures are not officially stated, but local forum discussions suggest potential factors. Some speculate that underperformance and low customer traffic at these specific locations might have contributed to the decision. In Glenwood’s case, the recent remodeling of a nearby Russ’s Market, a competitor, could also be a factor, intensifying competition in a town with a population around 5,000. It’s also mentioned that the specific format and size of the Glenwood Family Fare might not align with the company’s preferred operational model.
For Omaha residents, particularly in the Northeast area, the Family Fare closure raises immediate concerns about grocery accessibility. The store was valued for its selection of organic and gluten-free products, even if opinions on produce varied. The closure might disproportionately affect individuals who relied on this store due to its location and product range. The community now faces the prospect of potentially fewer options and the need to adjust shopping habits.
However, amidst the closures, there are also signs of adaptation and potential positive shifts within the SpartanNash brand, the parent company of Family Fare. While some Family Fare stores are closing, others are being converted to different formats within the same company. For instance, the Family Fare at 5101 & Harrison St. in Omaha is currently being remodeled to become a Super Mercado grocery store. This conversion suggests that SpartanNash is exploring different market strategies and aiming to cater to diverse customer segments within Omaha. Supermercado Nuestra Familia, a SpartanNash brand, focuses on serving the Hispanic community, indicating a strategic pivot rather than a complete retreat from the Omaha market.
In conclusion, the closure of two Family Fare stores in Omaha and Glenwood represents a notable shift in the local grocery landscape. While the immediate impact is felt by the communities losing convenient grocery options, particularly in Northeast Omaha, the conversion of another Family Fare to a Super Mercado indicates ongoing investment and adaptation by SpartanNash in the Omaha region. The coming months will reveal how these changes reshape grocery shopping habits and local market dynamics in Omaha and surrounding areas.
