Shoppers have mixed emotions as the July 7 closing date draws near for the 66 grocery stores in the Farmer Jack chain, being sold by its corporate owner Greater Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. based in New Jersey.
Customers of Farmer Jack at 7121 Dixie Highway expressed their feelings.
‘I am sad to see it leave and it’s too bad another store in Clarkston is closing,? said Joanne Gemborys. ‘It’s too bad it’s that way and we hope they can find jobs.
Sadness is not the only emotion being felt.
‘I’m mad,? said Virginia Lewandowski, realtor with Max Broock. ‘Why are they closing? What is going on in Michigan? I am a realtor and it’s bad enough I can’t sell houses.?
To others, Farmer Jack has had a home-like atmosphere to them.
‘Aw man, I hate it like heck,? said Jimmy Welch. ‘I live right behind here and for the last 12-13 years, I have grown to know these people by their first names. I feel so bad for them.?
Farmer Jack has been the only store to shop at for one customer.
‘I am going to miss it,? said Joanne Womack. ‘I have been shopping here for years and I don’t like Kroger, or Meijers. And I don’t particularly care for VG’s or Tenuta’s, so now I don’t know where I will shop.?
At least 21 of the grocery stores are still without a buyer, according to The Detroit News. Richard DeSanta, senior director of communications for A&P did not return calls for comment.