GIG HARBOR, WA – To our dismay, some things just aren’t meant to be... And so the story goes for Kroger’s Main & Vine grocery store, an experiment the retailer tried on for size in Gig Harber Washington. January 9th will be the store’s last day in commission, and there has been no discussion of a replacement store to fill the space as of yet, which is owned by Harbor Pacific Properties, LLC. But, as one door closes, another one opens; Kroger’s newest Fred Meyer store is set to open one day after Main & Vine’s closing in the same town.
“Main & Vine, located in Gig Harbor, Washington, was a unique venture for Kroger from the onset when it opened in February 2016. From the Main & Vine experience, we have learned many things about some of the best ways to provide quality, fresh and new foods to our customers. Our family of companies has already started to incorporate some of these features and unique offerings in other stores across the country, including the new Fred Meyer store opening next month in Gig Harbor,” said Kristal Howard, Head of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, in a recent Patch.com article. “Locally, we are working with all Main & Vine associates to help place them in positions at area Fred Meyer and QFC stores. Main & Vine employs about 80 associates. Main & Vine is expected to remain open for customers until its closing on or about January 9.”
Main & Vine’s original business plan showcased the retailer as an upscale version of QFC or Safeway, according to the Patch.com article. The store sold foods at QFC prices, while also including organic vegetables and prepared foods.
After the company announced the store’s closing, approximately 500 people signed an online petition requesting that Kroger keep Main & Vine open for the Gig Harbor public to continue enjoying.
Will Kroger cave and allow citizens of Gig Harbor to continue purchasing its goods under the Main & Vine name, or will its customers need to switch into Fred Meyer gear? AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you up-to-date with the latest industry news.
