‘Dismayed’: FreshChoice closing after 66 years
Fresh Choice Richmond is closing its doors after 66 years.
The Watson family announced the closure on social media on Wednesday evening, stating the store’s last day would be March 17.
The supermarket is owned by Gary and Lisa Watson, who have run the business since 2003, continuing the legacy started by Gary’s grandparents, Ivan and Lyalla Watson, who opened Richmond Super Discount in 1957 on the corner of Queen and Cambridge streets.
Gary Watson said he was not able to comment about the closure.
Yesterday, Richmond Mall announced on Facebook that the space would be refurbished after FreshChoice’s lease ended.
“The building will undergo extensive refurbishment,” the post said. “We have an exciting new vision for redevelopment of this space.”
Tinline, the commercial property companythat owned the mall, was planning a “transformational redevelopment” that would “reimagine Richmond Mall as a vibrant and exciting retail and dining destination”, it said.
More details about the proposed changes would be released before the middle of the year, the post said.
Richmond resident Lyn Trolove, dropping into the store to pick up a few items yesterday, said she was “dismayed” by the news.
“I’ve been coming here for at least a couple of decades. I like the friendly staff, and I know where everything is, so I can do a quick shop.”
“It’s sad,” Voyla Gardiner said, leaving the store with a trolley full of bags. “I grew up here, I’ve been shopping there forever: I remember the original store. They’re the best around. There’s a good choice of things, and good-quality meat.”
FreshChoice’s post said management was working closely with staff, and would be prioritising finding them employment. It asked anyone with jobs to offer to get in touch with the store.
“Our family wants to thank all our customers, amazing local suppliers and everyone whom we have engaged with over the years in some form and helped us in our business, and we will miss being part of the Richmond business community,” the post said.
The Watsons had long championed the Nelson region, with blue stickers highlighting local products like Pic’s Peanut Butter and Tasman Honey.
“Nelson is an easy sell,” Watson told Stuff in 2021. “So much stuff is produced in Nelson – a good array of products.
“I like helping local businesses and giving people a shot, too. It’s not just a marketing ploy, it’s what I believe.”
And with an impressive craft beer selection, the supermarket had also been the go-to spot for beer drinkers.