Freihofer’s Bakery Outlet has recently concluded operations at four locations across New Hampshire, as part of a broader decision by the company to close 28 outlets along the East Coast.
These outlets, which also served as distribution hubs for the parent company Bimbo Bakeries USA, offered a range of products including Arnold, Boboli, Entenmann’s, Lender’s Bagels, Sara Lee, and Thomas.
The affected locations include Concord, Hooksett, Keene, and Lebanon.
Notices posted on the doors of the Hooksett location on Monday conveyed the closure, stating, “Sorry, we are permanently closed! Thank you for your patronage and please find our great brands at your local retailer!”
While the closure of these outlets may lead to concerns about product availability, the company assures that its products will still be accessible on grocery store shelves. According to a news release, adjustments have been made to distribution processes, ensuring that products will be redirected to alternative locations.
The decision to close these outlets was not taken lightly, as stated in the news release: “After careful analysis and consideration, we made the difficult decision to permanently close 28 of our outlet stores throughout the East region.”
An independent contractor, who chose to remain anonymous, mentioned that operations from the Hooksett location are expected to be relocated to Wilmington, Mass.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by businesses operating with a limited product range, Kevin Daigle, president and CEO of the New Hampshire Grocers Association, remarked, “It is probably tough in today’s world finding workers. It probably makes sense to consolidate.”
Despite the closures, the company remains committed to minimizing waste by donating excess products to local food bank partners, as stated in the news release.
The closure of Freihofer’s Bakery Outlets marks the end of an era for similar bakery stores in the region. Notably, the property once occupied by a JJ Nissen Bread Outlet at 51 Londonderry Turnpike has remained abandoned for years.
Founded in Philadelphia in 1884, Freihofer Baking Co. was eventually acquired by Bimbo, a Mexican company.
The exact number of workers impacted by the closures remains undisclosed. However, the company expressed gratitude towards its associates, stating, “We appreciate all of our associates who worked at these stores and are taking steps to help ease them through this transition.”