New Orleans' oldest family-run grocery store has a new owner
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Langenstein's in Old Metairie. Photo: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios
Langenstein's ain't dere no more.
Why it matters: New Orleans' oldest family-run grocery store has a new owner, as of Wednesday.
The big picture: Robért Fresh Market bought the company and is converting Langenstein's stores in Uptown and Old Metairie to its own brand, according to a joint press release from the businesses.
- The Old Metairie store was closed Tuesday, with a sign on the door thanking customers. The location is scheduled to reopen Thursday.
- Same for the Prytania store.
- The Langenstein's signs will come down soon and temporary banners will be installed, a spokesperson tells Axios.
Zoom in: The 103-year-old Langenstein's name was not included in the sale, the spokesperson says.
- But Robért's did buy all of Langenstein's recipes, including the popular Better Cheddar Dip.
- Prytania Wine & Spirits, which will keep its name, was also sold.
- The sale was announced last month and is expected to finalize Wednesday, the companies tell Axios. The price was not disclosed.
By the numbers: Robért's made offers to all Langenstein's workers in Old Metairie and Uptown. About 95% of them stayed, the spokesperson says.
- Robért's, which is also family owned, started in Metairie in 1994.
The fine print: The sale does not include the River Ridge store.
- It will stay open through December before closing for good.
What he's saying: "Local ownership matters," says Ellis Lanaux, president and CEO of Langenstein's, in a statement. "It allows decisions to be made with the community in mind. That has always been the strength of Langenstein's, and we know Robért Fresh Market shares that belief."
What's next: Robert's plans to renovate the Metairie Road store next year.
Go deeper: New Orleans grocery wars