Apparently Tops is now starting to update their diverse fleet of stores east of the WNY area. And seeing what happened to one of these old ex-Grand Union stores as a result? That is disturbing!
Apparently this was a recent change, as there is "Grand Re-Opening CELEBRATION!" signage present. And also the exterior is now clad in vinyl siding like that seen on a modern Stewart's Shops. Also the cart corrals were upgraded to covered ones.
Cart Tax: Tops finally got rid of the rusted Instores after seven years of service (though interestingly a January 2023 picture shows some strange small wire Unarcos, possibly M65H). These carts mark the first time since the 1990s Tops has ever ordered plastic-on-metal carts (the last ones were red Rehrig Snubnoses like the one in this photo at the Gates, NY location). Also these are now in a covered cart corral, whereas they were previously exposed to the elements, hence why they rusted easily. Also these carts have R.W. Rogers badges like the ones seen at the Sherrill location, indicating these were likely made by an overseas manufacturer and distributed the R.W. Rogers Company. Shame it couldn't have been a set of Bemis carts though, that would have been interesting.
Inside we see the old Grand Union flooring has been replaced and much of the interior has been painted grey - which is rather depressing, but still a step up from the brown. Also all the lighting has been switched to daylight LED. Despite the new paint job, flooring, and decor, it still has the bones of an old Grand Union.
The single-person restroom was completely remodeled, with all new fixtures. The grey stone-like tile is still quite ugly as always.
For this store to be remodeled, could this mean other stores could be remodeling or have already been remodeled? Post in the comments if any other stores in this general area have been or are currently upgrading.
- Retail Regents
