SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. — Geissler's Supermarket in South Windsor is closing its doors after 37 years in business.
The final day of operations for the store will be Wednesday, July 17.
“This decision was not made lightly,” said Bob Rybick, president of Geissler’s, in a statement sent to the media. “South Windsor holds a special place in my heart because I began my own career there in the produce department. The store, and the people in it, have meant a great deal to me both personally and professionally.”
Company leadership said that while they have "long held a vision for the South Windsor location to serve as a flagship store," they made the decision to close "after evaluating all available options." They called the move the "most responsible step forward to ensure the long-term health of the company."
Geissler's Human Resources team is reportedly working with team members who will be affected by the closure. This can include helping them find other positions within the company "wherever possible."
“The South Windsor store has been a valued part of the Geissler’s family and the local community for nearly four decades,” Rybick said. “We’re incredibly thankful for the commitment and care shown by our team, and for the unwavering loyalty of our customers. We thank the South Windsor community for being such an important part of our journey these past 37 years, and we hope to continue serving you at our nearby locations.”
The plaza where the store is located, which dates back to the 1960s, is largely empty. The grocery store was originally Popular Supermarket and later Armata's. It used to house the town library, a liquor store and a pharmacy. There have been attempts in recent years to redevelop the area with retail and residential.
The news has stirred emotional responses from longtime customers and community members. Many have taken to social media to share memories and express disappointment about the closure of what has become a landmark in town.
“You know when you see Geissler’s, you’re in South Windsor or you know where you are in town,” said Amanda Walsh, a local shopper.
Stevie Parlapiano of Somers has been a loyal customer for years. She said it feels bittersweet to hear about the closing.
“It’s kind of sad because I used to work here 15 years ago, just down the street,” she said. “I go to the one close to me quite often, but I come here when I’m in the area. You always think a store like this will hang around, so it’s quite sad when it’s closing.”
For many families, shopping at Geissler’s has been more than just a routine errand: it’s been a tradition. Walsh said the store’s central location and familiarity made it a go-to spot for quick grocery runs.
“It’s going to be pretty strange,” she said. “I feel lucky that there are other places in South Windsor where we can shop, but for the employees, it’s tough. I know people from high school who work here. Some of my family members still shop here. It’s going to be weird for them to go to different places.”
While the South Windsor location prepares to say goodbye, Geissler’s continues to operate at five other locations around the state and one over the state line in Massachusetts.
Tricia Ennis is the Director of Digital Content at FOX61 News. They can be reached at [email protected].
Vallery Maravi is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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