The Final Chapter of Sheridan Fruit Company
A Heartfelt Farewell
On a rather ordinary Thursday, Suzanne Kruse made her yearly call to the Sheridan Fruit Company for her birthday treat. Instead of placing her usual order for porchetta, she was met with dismal news—the beloved Portland store was closing its doors for good.
A Storied Legacy
Founded by John Sheridan in 1916, the store stood as a cherished icon of Southeast Portland’s once-thriving Produce Row. It represented a golden era of independent grocers, now almost vanished.
An Unforgettable Community Hub
Kruse, who became a devoted customer after moving to Portland in 1992, rushed to the store. As she gathered her final purchases, including a container of porchetta seasoning, she reflected on the irreplaceable charm of Sheridan. “There’s no place like it,” she lamented, indicating the unique spirit that would be sorely missed.
Transition of Ownership
Sheridan, originally belonging to John, was acquired by the Poleo brothers, Sam and Larry, in 1946. Since then, it remained a family affair, passed down through four generations.
Vince Torchia’s Journey
The current proprietor, Vince Torchia, began his tenure at Sheridan as a young lad in 1953. Over time, not only did he become a fixture of the establishment, but he also became part of the family by marrying Carol, the daughter of Sam Poleo.
Challenges and Resilience
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheridan struggled. The business faced numerous obstacles, from supply shortages to reduced foot traffic. In March 2020, layoffs ensued, shutting down the wholesale department entirely. Despite these adversities, the family made valiant efforts to navigate the evolving landscape.
Competitive Pressures
Inevitable pressures arose as nearby grocery titans presented fierce competition. Caiti Barwick, managing human resources, expressed how Sheridan struggled to compete in the retail market, leading to the rumours of an inevitable closure.
The Final Day
Sheridan’s last Friday was filled with melancholic goodbyes. Patrons rummaged through diminishing shelves as they bid farewell to an institution that stood tall for over a century.
A Family Affair
Torchia worked alongside family members, including his daughters Lori and Anne, and grandson Justin and his wife Caiti. They have tirelessly devoted themselves to maintaining the spirit of Sheridan.
A Community Mourns
On its last day, Sheridan ended with merely 31 employees, down from almost 100 pre-pandemic. Barwick endeavoured to assist staff in finding new positions, many having dedicated decades to the grocer. A palpable sadness lingered as friends and former patrons reconciled with the reality of losing another piece of Old Portland’s legacy.
Conclusion
The closure of Sheridan Fruit Company marks the end of an era. For many, it signifies not just the loss of a store but the fading away of a community’s heart.
“It’s very, very sad,” reflected Torchia, encapsulating the poignant sentiment shared by all. In its 110-year tenure, Sheridan wasn’t merely a grocery store; it was a testament to family, heritage, and community spirit.
