Tim Donaldson, Foodstuffs South Island General Manager Retail and Property, told chrislynchmedia.com “  The owner operators of Raeward Fresh Harewood made the difficult decision to close the store after three years in business.“After careful consideration and a review of the business, which identified changing customer needs and behaviours, the owner operators have started the process of consultation with their team members.

“All the store team will be looked after and offered the opportunity to be redeployed at other Foodstuffs South Island stores, wherever possible.

The proposed last day of trading for Raeward Fresh Harewood will be on Friday 6 September.

“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our Raeward Fresh Harewood team, suppliers and customers for their hard work and support over the years, and the owner operators for the fantastic offering they’ve provided to their community.”

Local councillor Aaron Keown said he hadn’t heard the news but said sadly he wasn’t surprised.

“The store seemed quiet these days but the cafe was still busy and popular.

“It’s very sad news for all staff and loyal customers” he said.