The JA Moisan grocery store sells off its stocks: “No longer viable”, the oldest grocery store in America will close

The JA Moisan grocery store, the oldest store of its kind in North America, is liquidating its inventory in preparation for closing, has learned The Journal. The historic site would change its vocation, but the building would not be for sale, the owners confirmed.

Donna Willett and her partner had to face the facts: the concept of delicatessen, so dear to them to perpetuate the 154-year-old tradition, is “no longer viable”.

“It’s a carefully considered decision,” said the Gaspé businesswoman who bought the historic building in 2019. The whole team worked hard to try to maintain the grocery store, but it wasn’t possible. is no longer possible. We can’t continue to lose money like this.”

All remaining products will therefore be subject to a 25% reduction, while stocks last. Managers anticipate closure “by the end of January.”

Competition and exorbitant costs

Fierce competition from large-scale stores, which acquire more and more fine products, and competition in food on Saint-Jean Street have overcome the small grocery store which has made its place in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste district since 1871.

“We depend a lot on tourism, because local customers are very rare. There is no longer the same attachment as before for JA Moisan in the neighborhood. Even with another owner, I don’t see it being profitable with the same vocation,” lamented Mr.^me Willett.

The major renovations she and her family carried out in 2020 and the annual increases also caused the building’s tax bill to double in five years. According to the City of Quebec’s property assessment roll, it would cost $76,194.87 in municipal bonds per year.

Sell ​​or rent

The owners called on the Quebec Business Transfer Center to find a possible buyer for the small, century-old business. However, they have every intention of keeping the building and the clothing store and inn it houses, both of which are “profitable”.

“There is interest in grocery shopping. We are open to selling this part of the building, but it takes the right project […] If I had more energy and time, I would turn to ready-to-eat products,” said Donna Willett, mentioning that the identity of those interested is protected by a confidentiality agreement.

In addition to carrying out these negotiations, the Gaspésie and her husband have mandated the Royal LePage firm to determine the value of a possible commercial rent if they opt instead to rent the space.

“We are open to leaving all the equipment available to the next occupant. We are considering a turnkey rental. It would be ideal, in fact,” she concluded, specifying that she will do “everything in her power” to preserve the JA Moisan brand and its rich history.