Andronico’s In Berkeley, Out Of Bankrupcy, Open For Business

Concerned that fans and patrons think Andronico’s is totally out of business with the close of its Telegraph Avenue store in Berkeley, the food retailer's went on a big push to let you know they're still going strong, and their facilities on Shattuck Avenue, and on Solono Avenue, both in Berkeley, are still going concerns as the firm emerges from bankruptcy.

[caption id="attachment_13477" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Andronico's "][/caption] The Telegraph Avenue store was the final one to close and marks the end of a financial restructuring program that started last year, and managed to save 375 jobs in the process. Bill Andronico, third generation member of the family which founded the markets, said...

“Investment in the future of Andronico’s Markets can begin now that we are financially stable after the sale of the company to Renovo Capital. Our focus now is to build upon the strong brand built over three generations. We have completed a difficult restructuring process and I am pleased that we have been able to save the business and in the process preserve 375 jobs. We are now fully focused on improving the customer experience and business operations of the remaining stores.The closing of the Telegraph Avenue store became necessary because the property would have been too difficult to bring up to the standards that our customers expect and deserve. As a result the decision was made to close its operation. We are urging customers to shop at the Shattuck or Solano Avenue stores in Berkeley for the Andronico’s experience."

Renovo Capital Promises Reinvestment

Justin Jackson, Chief Operating Officer of Renovo Capital, said that Renovo and Andronico’s focus is on maintaining and investing in the five store that are open now. Jackson said "We have embarked on an ambitious program of significantly improving merchandising and stock conditions now that we are healthy again. Over the next year, we are committed to initiating capital improvements in all locations that will greatly enhance the categories and shopping experience our customers expect in this unique marketplace."

While many did not like that the Berkeley, Telegraph Avenue store closed, the reality is that it was part of the overall reduction of Andronico's store as a whole. At best there were 14 stores, then that dropped to eight in 2010, and now just five. And the opening and popularity of the giant, 55,000 square-foot Whole Foods Store in Oakland only served to hurt Andronico's Telegraph Avenue venue. Renovo Capital's working on maintaining what exists now.

Stay tuned.