I Has a Sad: Fresh & Easy May Close or Sell

Fresh  & Easy Down & Out? Image from source.

Well, poop. Fresh & Easy is a grocery store chain that has become a favorite of mine. They're in an unusual niche between a Whole Foods and a Trader Joe's, with a dash of a small, urban grocery. They have a limited selection, and it took me a while to figure out quite what they were. But once you figure out what they specialize in, it becomes a real treat. They've got consistent, low prices on hamburger, cheeses and limited produce. They have a wide variety of prepared, plated meals--fresh, not frozen--perfect for grabbing on your way to work for lunch, or for an easy dinner on your way home. When they have sales on things like hams, I make a special trip. When I'm getting my hair cut next door, I invariably stop in to see what goodies I can find. They also have a markdown area that can yield amazing deals on all of the above.

So, I'm hopeful that the corporate parent finds a buyer who retains the character and products that Fresh & Easy currently carries. They may not be paying off for share holders, but they've got a lot of fans, particularly here in Las Vegas.

[Excerpt]

Tesco may sell all Fresh & Easy stores

British supermarket giant Tesco may soon be bidding bon voyage to its American problem child.
Five years after the company landed in California and opened 200 stores across the West, Tesco said it is preparing to sell its struggling Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market chain and retreat from the U.S. market altogether. . .

Read more at: Los Angeles Times