Martin’s Small-Format Concept in South Bend, Ind., to Close

Portage Meat & Market, a small-format concept introduced by Martin’s Super Markets in South Bend, Ind., will be closing its doors on Jan. 25. The concept, which opened in October 2017, replaced the long-standing Martin’s store at the time.

The decision was based on the “continuous evaluation of what is best for the Martin’s retail footprint, our associates and the communities we serve,” said VP of Sales and Marketing Amy Simeri McClellan in a local news report. “While it is never an easy decision to close a store, this is not a reflection on our dedicated associates or their commitment to serving our customers.” Staff at the store will be offered positions at other Martin’s locations.

Portage Meat & Market was a scaled-back version of Martin’s traditional store, offering meat, dairy and bulk items, but eliminating the full-scale deli and bakery departments. The store did offer hot bar selections, but the concept was different from the Side Door Deli found in Martin’s other stores. Portage also introduced a beverage bar that sold Martin’s doughnuts.

The original store was about 55,000 square feet, of which only 35,000 square feet was used by the Portage concept. The concept also employed a different marketing strategy than Martin’s Super Markets with its own ads and specials, although the Martin’s loyalty card did work at Portage Meat & Market.

Martin’s Super Markets was acquired by SpartanNash in late 2018.