New Yorkers are embracing a free market.
Hundreds of people lined up Thursday for a chance to shop at the city’s “first free grocery store” — launched by Polymarket as it and other prediction betting platforms face increased scrutiny from state regulators.
The West Village shop — an apparent nod to Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s government-run grocery store pitch — drew more than 400 New Yorkers, who lined up hours ahead of the 2 p.m. opening, eager to fill blue tote bags with no-cost produce, nonperishables and toiletries.
“Times are hard. Things are very expensive, so this helps,” said Forest Hills resident Tori Hall, who was second in line outside the pop-up store. “It goes a long way.”…