GLENDALE, AZ — After a little more than a year in operation, the state's first and only known vegan-only grocery store has announced it will be closing its doors.
In a blog post Monday, Veggie Rebellion announced it would next open March 9 and close its doors for good shortly thereafter.
"We’ve exhausted all ideas, all outlets, and have come to the painful conclusion that Veggie Rebellion must close," the company said. "The store will not be reopening until Saturday, March 9th at 10am. We will remain open our usual hours both weekend days, and shuttering our doors forever, shortly thereafter."
"We will be liquidating all of our inventory, to cover outstanding vendor debts. And then selling or returning our equipment, and shelving."
The store, near 59th and Glendale avenues, opened with a burst of enthusiasm from the public. Owner Sandra McKee told us right after the store opened that she had been fielding calls from all over the country--and even Europe--before the doors had officially opened.
Like all small businesses, a swarm of opening attention can prove elusive to sustain.
"Money never stretches far enough, people don’t want to work with small organizations, and the future is generally uncertain," the company said in its farewell. "We are so grateful for everyone allowing VR to serve our community. We appreciate the friends and family we have made along the way. Sincerest of thank yous from the deepest recesses of my heart for giving me the opportunity to do this."
