Ottawa-based Kardish Health Food Centre has announced it will be closing all its remaining locations after nearly five decades in business. The health food retailer that once operated at least six locations in the nation’s capital said changes in consumer behaviour in the natural food industry and “increased competition” have made its business model unsustainable. The company’s owners Robert and Melinda Assaf announced the closure in a letter to members. “Despite our best efforts and numerous initiatives to adapt to the changing retail landscape, the reality is that our business has been struggling for several years,” the Assafs wrote. The retailer has already closed most of its locations and will soon be shutting down its remaining stores on Merivale Road and on Innes Road in Orléans at a later date. Opened in 1979, the stores offered a wide range of healthy products, including bulk items, vitamins and natural foods. The company acknowledges customers may have noticed “challenges” while shopping at its stores in recent months. “We know our stores haven’t been fully stocked, and because of this we haven’t been able to provide you with the exceptional customer experience that Kardish has been known for over the decades,” the owners said. “We are deeply grateful for your patience and loyalty during this difficult period, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.” The closure will also mean the end of Kardish-brand products. “We know how much many of you have come to rely on and love these products that we’ve spent years developing and perfecting. The strong following you’ve shown for our Kardish brand items has been a source of tremendous pride for us,” the owners said. The company says long-term staff have chosen to stay working “until the very end.” The remaining stores will be offering discounts and special offers on remaining items, including “member appreciation pricing” until all its inventory is gone. “Thank you for trusting us with your health and wellness needs, for supporting our family business, and for being part of our story. While this chapter is ending, the relationships and memories we’ve made will last forever,” the letter read.
