A New Jersey grocery store that has been in business for over a century has finally closed down.
The Denville Foodtown first opened its doors in 1893 when it was opened as Dickerson’s General Store.
Several decades later, the Dickerson family partnered with Foodtown.
But the family, which has owned the store for five generations, says that competition has become tough and they decided to close the store for good.
Dozens of members of the community and former employees gathered outside the store Monday afternoon to say goodbye.
“Today I met a 101-year-old woman who’s been a customer for 67 years and she knew my great-great grandfather, Elmer,” says Taylor Dickerson.
“With the sadness came so much positive love and affection and support,” says Jeff Dickerson. “It’s incredible.”
The building has been rebuilt several times over the years, but it has always been on the same property.
Barbara Schultz worked at the store for 53 years.
“To me, it’s like a death in the family to me,” she says.
“It’s been an adventure and I think the adventure will continue, I really do,” says elder Marie Dickerson.
The Dickerson family owns the plaza that the Foodtown is located in. The family say that they are working on getting another business in the space, and to continue to work with the community.
The older Dickersons say that they plan on spending some time traveling.