A decades-old Winn-Dixie grocery store in Palm Beach Gardens will permanently close April 19, marking the end of an era for shoppers at Gardens Park Plaza on Military Trail and Northlake Boulevard, according to company representatives and property owners.
The grocery chain called the closure a “difficult decision” made to support the future success of the brand, company officials told WPTV. Employees will have options to transfer to other locations or receive severance packages.
Community Reaction Mixed as Shopping Changes Loom
Local shopper Kiki Saunders expressed disappointment about losing the convenient grocery option. “I feel like they have great prices, and it’s convenient for me, so for it to close, it’s pretty upsetting,” Saunders said Wednesday.
The Winn-Dixie closure represents part of broader changes affecting the Palm Beach Gardens shopping center, where rising commercial rents are forcing out additional longtime businesses.
Rising Rents Push Out Small Businesses
Ilam Shalom, owner of Dollar Deals Plus, said an 80% rent increase from new property management left him no choice but to close after decades in business at the plaza…