Farewell to a Community Staple: Hays Supermarket Closes After Decades of Service

A Fond Farewell to Hays Supermarket

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. (KAIT) - Hays Supermarket, a beloved grocery store that has served the Blytheville community since 1935, closed its doors on January 18. The announcement of the closure came on January 6, leaving many in the community heartbroken.

Susannah King, vice president of human resources at Hays, expressed the emotional toll of the closure, stating, "For me it is tough, we have been at this location on Main Street since 1935 and been a big part of this side of town’s community and tried to be a service to everyone."

Adrienne Buckley, a cashier at Hays, shared her sentiments about the store's closure, saying, "It’s kind of hurtful and sad because it’s closing down. I’ve learned so much from working here and I grew up and grew a family here."

Cherished Memories and Community Support

Both workers and customers reflected on the fond memories created at Hays over the years. King noted, "I have fond memories of all the customers that would come in and then so many other associates I got to work with."

The support from customers on the final day was heartwarming. King stated, "It’s very heartwarming that you know till the last day they are supporting us. They are asking lots of questions. This building and this store and the customers and employees that are in it will always hold a special place in all our hearts."

Buckley added, "It makes me feel very honorable, very great to know that we ever appreciated."

Future Plans

Despite the closure, Hays still operates another supermarket in Blytheville, with plans for expansion and new surprises on the horizon. King mentioned, "We have a lot of new plans and surprises coming."

The legacy of Hays Supermarket will undoubtedly be remembered by the community it served for nearly a century.