Local Shoprite Closes

For many Niskayuna residents, the local Shoprite on Nott Street is the place to go for groceries and other common household items. Located right next to Niskayuna High School, it is a prime location for many Niskayuna inhabitants. It would be hard to imagine this local business going under. However, it was announced that this December, Shoprite will be closing its Niskayuna location along with others throughout the capital region. This closing will have a major impact on its shoppers, who may have to lengthen their commute when trying to find another place to shop. In addition, it will impact the 127 store employees who are set to lose their jobs, as well as an estimated 400 employees from the other 5 locations.

The stores are said to be closing due to poor sales performance. Even though the Shoprite chain has had much success over the past 20 years, its numbers aren't able to compete with other grocery stores in the capital region. Shoprite had to shut down a few of their other locations last year, but have debuted 4 new ones this year. So, it appears only the capital region will be impacted by this loss. 

As the search for a suitable tenant for the Shoprite location carries on, there is another issue stemming from this change: the company has a lease set until 2031 and will have to continue paying under this lease. This could possibly lead to a financial loss for the company. But, Shoprite has the option to sublease the property to another grocery tenant, or to outright sell the lease if they choose. In the interest of our town, it would be best if another grocer takes over that spot. This could help recover the lost jobs, as well as the loss of a major grocer in our community. Currently, the only other local grocery store is the Co-op on Nott Street, but it’s much smaller in scale as compared to the Shoprite and may not be able to meet all previous needs. 

It’s unknown whether another grocer will replace Shoprite, or if the grocery store will just be taken over by some alternative form of retail. But, as of right now, Niskayuna civilians can help clear out the store before its closing day on December 9 and start making an alternative plan for our weekly grocery shopping.