GATESVILLE – Family Foods has announced their Gatesville store has closed effective Dec. 31.

John Lane, one of the Family Foods Stores owners, attributed declining sales, the expense of upgrading that site and the national trend toward larger locations as the reason for the closure of the store.

He added that Family Foods Corporation would refocus its resources on the Gates and Sunbury locations, continuing to meet Gates County’s grocery needs through those two stores as well as the Family Foods in Corapeake and Rich Square. Family Foods Stores Inc. sold their Lewiston store to another grocer some time ago.

Lane said the corporation very much appreciates the loyalty of Gatesville’s customer base and they recognize the inconvenience closing of the store will bring to some.

He added that Gates County customers are certainly invited and welcomed to continue shopping at the Corapeake, Sunbury and Gates locations. The company will also continue to serve the Rich Square locality.

Closing of the Gatesville store will impact 13 full and part-time employees.

Some will be offered positions at the Gates and Sunbury stores as the need and opportunity arises.

&uot;We regret the impact on them and their families that this decision brings,&uot; said Lane.

The land and the Family Foods building will be listed and offered for sale. Lane said that hopefully a buyer would be located who will offer a needed service in the Gatesville community.