Brookfield Grocery Store To Close Next Week

BROOKFIELD, CT — Connecticut's only Food Emporium will close sometime next week, less than a year after opening its Brookfield location, according to the town's economic development office.

The grocery store at 731 Federal Road has not yet determined its final day of business, but it is expected to close next week, Brookfield economic development and project manager Greg Dembowski said.

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Dembowski said the New York-based grocery chain never generated enough sales to cover its operating costs despite efforts by store employees and the town to raise awareness of the business.

"Brookfield's Economic Development Office and EDC has been working with the owner and store managers for months to increase awareness of the Food Emporium offerings," Dembowski said. "Store Manager Chris May and his team built a very friendly, professional staff who did all they could to welcome customers. I often heard how helpful they were."

The Brookfield location opened in late November after repeated construction delays pushed back an opening that had originally been planned for 2023. It was the only Food Emporium location in Connecticut.

Dembowski said 24 employees will be affected by the closure, though nearly all full-time employees have already secured jobs elsewhere.

"The job market is strong in our region with ample employment opportunities," he said.

He also cited the area's competitive grocery market, noting nearby options including Stew Leonard's, BJ's Wholesale Club, Costco, ShopRite and Big Y.

Despite the closure, Dembowski said he is optimistic the approximately 10,000-square-foot space won't remain vacant for long.

"There is already considerable interest in this space," he said. "It is in a prime location, and I am confident there will be good news to report in the near future."

Those interested in leasing the property should contact owner Paul Scalzo, according to Dembowski.