A local grocery story in North Vancouver closed last week due to unexpected change in costs. September 4 was the last day for Meridian Farm Market, that opened on Marine Drive nearly 10 years ago.
“The decision to close the North Vancouver location was difficult but ultimately it came down to unexpected changes to location costs,” said Bryan Candy, the marketing manager for the market. Candy didn’t say whether the location cost issues were related to an increase in rent. “I can’t comment about lease details or changes to rent costs specifically.”
In an emailed statement, Candy said the store was well received by the community and it’s unfortunate that they won’t be able to serve customers in person. However, he said Meridian will continue to offer next-day delivery in North Vancouver and hopes to retain the customer base with this option.
“We are still expanding the company with new locations, so it’s possible we’ll return to North Van in the future. At this time, we’re focused on our upcoming Abbotsford farm market which will be opening in the fall,” he said.
On social media, a number of customers lamented the closing and decried the rent increases that forced the closing of the store. “Their 10 year lease is up now and rent is going up 30%. So devastating. I work in the plaza and have grown really close with the staff at Meridians so its pretty sad to see them go like that,” said one person on Redditt.
“This is really upsetting! Meridian is a great store, the staff are awesome and the selection/prices are really good. Everyone I know shops there regularly – they’ll be missed,” noted another.
In the Lower Mainland, Meridian operates three locations in Maple Ridge, Delta and Mission.
Very sad such a good store has closed. Great local, quality products. A loss.
…such a nice store and pleasant staff.Sad to see the cost of doing business in metro van go sky-high.
So sad to lose such a great store with great staff…time to cap commercial rent increases,….30% is gouging 😡.
It is sheer greed on somebody’s part that a small market must close….
Oh no! I love this family owned store and their concept. I was one of the first to write about them for The Province! 10 years went by so fast. I hope you can find affordable and come open a corner store in Vancouver, we need your ethical business here.
Change the name to Persian Farm Market and watch your monthly take increase exponentially…
Oh no! We loved shopping at Meridian. Fantastic service, great local products. Sorry to see you go. 😕
Such a loss for the residents who shopped regularly like myself being a few blocks away from the location. It will be missed by many happy shoppers and the quality is is very good. Friendly people working there. So sad to see it go. Regards Robert ryrie
What are the complaining about 30% increase after 10 years? That’s nothing. They should have just paid it and continued in business. I cannot believe they would just turn their backs on all their customers and think that they will just order from them. They should invest in the store or somebody else should take over the lease. I think kins market should look at it