Approaching almost a year after a devastating fire at the Colborne Foodland, Sobey’s has confirmed the company isn’t reopening a store downtown.
The Township of Cramahe issued a release on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, confirming the news with the community.
“Cramahe township residents, council and staff are disappointed to learn (that) Sobey’s corporation today (Tuesday) have informed us they will not be reopening a food store in Colborne,” reads the release.
Back on May 24, 2023, dozens of Cramahe and Brighton firefighters descended on the Colborne Foodland located at 25 Toronto St. as the call came in about a fire just before 5 a.m. As previously reported, crews knocked down “the main fire fairly quickly.”
Even in the earlier estimates, damage was described as extensive – including the smoke damage. On the day of the fire, plumes of smoke could be seen billowing out the building from a distance.
In Tuesday’s release, the Colborne Foodland store was described as “destroyed.”
Since the fire, Sobey’s had been investigating options for a new food store, the documentation further reads – but it appears this just isn’t “viable,” according to the company.
In the aftermath of the fire, Colborne was quick to rally on multiple fronts to ensure area residents weren’t going without food, as Foodland served as a main grocer.
“While we are disappointed by this news, we know the strength and potential of our dynamic, growing community,” said Cramahe Mayor Mandy Martin. “Colborne has successfully met all kinds of economic challenges in its 230-years-plus of foundation.
“Now, we encourage, and welcome all interested to consider this investment opportunity.”
According to the township, a letter received and dated April 23, reads: “We have made the difficult decision not to reopen the store. Regrettably, reopening is not a viable option.”
Town officials noted the letter was signed by Mark Deans, director of development and transactions for Ontario, and Krista Payne, vice-president of operations for Ontario Sobeys Inc.
The township provided what appears to be excerpts from the letter, which read: “We understand that this will affect the community, and so wanted you to hear directly from us so that you are informed and prepared to address any questions from residents.”
According to the release issued Tuesday, the franchise owner and store operator is meeting with affected teammates – and in many cases, those who had transitioned to work at the Cobourg Foodland will retain those roles. Support is also pledged for remaining employees as they transition to another store or pursue other employment opportunities.
“We wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Colborne community for their loyal patronage of the store over the years, and the dedication of our teammates in service to the community,” the letter goes on to read, according to the township’s release.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
