AACA purchases South End Grocery Store property

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- South End Grocery Store has a new owner. Advance Albany County Alliance (AACA) announced its property purchase on Friday. AACA said it hopes to transform the space into one that serves the needs of South Albany residents.

The store began as a charitable grocery resource for fresh and healthy food, but in August 2023, the business defaulted on its loans. AACA officials said they plan to work with stakeholders, community groups, and residents to develop a space the community wants.

The property acquisition project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act funds from Albany County Legislature. The county legislature voted to purchase the property in March.

Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy, a native of South Albany, understands the importance of redeveloping the property and hopes it will help bring change to the neighborhood.

"Every challenge presents an opportunity, and while the closure of the South End Grocery Store was a setback, it is now also a chance to reimagine what the space can become,' McCoy said. "We will continue to work with stakeholders to build something that will meet the needs of local residents."