Publix Super Markets announced Tuesday evening that it is closing its GreenWise store in Palm Beach Gardens.
"Really, that is a bummer," Michelle Cloud said. Her reaction echoed those of other shoppers. "It is very much so. I'm sad you gave me that news."
Ever since Publix created the smaller, organically-themed stores they seemed to be popular wherever they located. Which is probably why many shoppers were puzzled that the store in the Legacy Plaza would be gone by the end of December.
"Parking around here is always full. I don't know why they would close, it's a bummer," Cloud said.
Organic food is a $40 billion+ a year industry and organic markets are popping up everywhere. Competition is fierce.
When the Earth Fare Market opened up earlier this year nearby, it became the fourth organic market along a stretch of PGA Boulevard.
One person with knowledge of the inner workings of the stores at Legacy Place said Publix might have felt the pressure of the other stores.
"There are a couple in the vicinity, yes. So you have a lot of choice, true. But Publix is a name everyone knows. They're good to their people. Isn't (it) an employee-owned company as well?" said shopper Peter Christoff.
According to the company, job opportunities at other Publix locations will be offered to all associates.
