Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
Today we are sharing the news with great sadness that McNaughton’s Garden Center, located at 331 New Road, Somers Point, recently announced plans to pull up their roots and leave our beloved town.
The family owned business planted its seeds here more than 25 years ago, bringing joy to many families who bought their indoor and outdoor plants and accessories there to enhance their homes.
The retail world is constantly changing. After long, hard and emotional consideration, the McNaughton Family decided to close the Somers Point store at the end of July and consolidate to their Cherry Hill location.
The decision was not easy as it never is when a business closes. They will continue to be fully stocked with all items that their loyal customers are accustomed to. The store will also be fully staffed for the spring season. If you have any questions, you can contact Kathy and Shawn at 609-601-1616.
Every week I end my articles by encouraging people to shop locally and especially support small businesses. It’s important now more than ever.
Yes, people are affected by inflation and their hard-earned dollars are buying less and less. The cost of goods and services continues to rise. Owners of companies are in a constant struggle to fight inflated prices while attempting to achieve an adequate profit margin. Sometimes it works and, unfortunately, sometimes it does not.
It is called a zero-sum game. For every company that does not make it, there are frequently ones that will succeed and replace them. In the case of McNaughton’s Garden Center, it appears that it will ultimately be demolished, creating space for other retail: possibly restaurants or other services to replace it. McNaughton’s will be missed by a lot of the locals.
You might have also noticed the Walgreens, at the corner of Groveland Avenue and New Road, is now vacant. Unfortunately this second victim of retail competition has succumbed to current economic conditions. However, to much surprise, it is going to be replaced by an Aldi grocery store.
It is going to be a little more 21,000 square feet. It was approved April 19, 2023. The store is going to be developed by Provco Somers Point, LLC.
The approval did not happen without opposition from some area residents who opposed the anticipated traffic, noise, and stormwater management issues. They asked why the city needed a third grocery store. However, the city thought the benefits outweigh the concerns and approved it.
Aldi has a niche in the competitive grocery space. The chain is owned by Albrecht Discounts, which also owns the popular brand of Trader Joe’s.
There are 2,357 Aldi stores throughout the United States. Apparently, the corporate site selection people realize there are two existing grocery stores within a half mile, and feel they will not only compete, but will thrive.
The concept is to offer fantastic service along with extremely competitive prices. I guess we will see if Somers Point, and the surrounding towns, can support three grocery stores plus Target.
In the end, will the consumer be the winner being able to get more competitive prices? We will see.
Remember, stay off the internet and support local businesses, especially small businesses.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680
or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
