Popular grocery chain to close store after 30 years – and owner slams dollar stores & Walmart for demise

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According to The Sun, A beloved grocery chain, Sparkle Market, is set to close its doors for the last time on October 30 after three decades of serving the community in Reynolds Plaza, Transfer, Pennsylvania. Rising costs and increasing competition from larger retailers, particularly Walmart, are being cited as the main reasons behind this difficult decision.

Owner’s Perspective on the Closure

Owner Tony Modarelli expressed his frustration over the challenges facing local grocery stores. “We opened that store over 30 years ago. There were three grocery stores in Greenville, plus us. Now, the only thing left in Greenville is a Walmart, an Aldi, and there’s not going to be anything in Transfer,” he said.

Modarelli acknowledged the competitive pricing of Walmart, stating, “Walmart can sell their groceries a lot cheaper than we can, to be honest with you. But they’re also selling tires, they’re selling groceries, they’re selling TVs—we’re selling groceries.”

Community Impact

The closure will have a significant impact on the community, as Modarelli highlighted the personal relationships formed over the years. “We know almost everybody that shops there. Most of the people in the community. We supported baseball, little league, and churches. It’s going to affect the whole area.”

While Sparkle Markets in Boardman, Warren, and Brookfield will remain operational, the loss of the Transfer location is being felt deeply by many.

Community Reactions

Following the announcement, loyal customers flooded the store’s Facebook page with heartfelt comments. One user remarked, “The only place I like to stop. Friendly staff. Their weekly sale prices are hard to beat, and they usually always have what is advertised, unlike the bait-and-switch program others practice. Sad for the community as well.”

Also read: Popular fried chicken chain files Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Another customer lamented, “Oh no, you will be missed. Who buys meat at Walmart? Not me.” Others shared their sadness, with comments like, “I really love shopping there. Thank you for your service,” and “I love Reynolds Sparkle! I stop every few days, and I’m sad to see this! I guess I will make the drive out to Brookfield Sparkle and continue to shop.”

A Fond Farewell

As Sparkle Market prepares to close its doors, the community reflects on the store’s legacy of service, support, and connection. The impending closure serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by local businesses in today’s retail landscape.

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