Toronto high-end grocer Pusateri’s Fine Foods will be closing almost all of its locations after declaring bankruptcy earlier this week.
On Tuesday, Licensed Insolvency Trustee Albert Gelman Inc. administered the bankruptcy for Pusateri’s locations in Bayview Village, Yorkville, Little Italy and its kitchen in North York which operates as an industrial kitchen and warehouse.
The grocer will be consolidating its operations into its flagship location on Avenue Road. It’s unclear how the employees at this location will be affected.
Additionally, Pusateri’s location in Eaton Centre’s Saks Food Hall will remain open.
On Sunday, the grocer’s co-owner Ida Pusateri posted an emotional message on the brand’s Instagram to update its customers.
“As many of you know, we’ve made the difficult decision to consolidate our business to our flagship Avenue Road & Lawrence store, and close Bayview Village and the planned Little Italy store,” she said.
“While not an easy decision, certainly no one is more disappointed than us to see years of work come to an end, but we know it to be a necessary step to ensure the long term success and sustainability of our brand so we keep all our attention and focus on serving you, our customers, with the best products and service around,” she continued.
Pusateri goes on to say that she is deeply grateful for the support from its team, customers, vendors and the local community.
Under the comments, customers shared words of encouragement for the grocer.
“Dear Ida, it seems that nothing is certain in this crazy world that we live in. Ave/Lawrence has been my go-to for decades and I will always be a fan! Wishing you the best, always,” one Instagram user said.
“You are a legacy and a survivor through thick and thin! I’ve been a customer for over 35 years and will always support your vision and journey! Wishing you all the best through these turbulent times!” another user said.
“We are here for you Ida! You will prevail!” another user commented.
“We love the Pusateri’s brand and the lovely Pusateri’s family. Wishing great success in many generations to come!” another comment read.
It’s unknown when the Pusateri’s locations are set to close.
