The Peru Gazette

November 13, 2023 — Stewart’s Shops Corp. is closing its store at the corner of Manning Boulevard and Central Avenue in Albany following a surge in theft, robberies and threats of violence that have created an unsafe environment for our customers and our partners who work there. This unfortunate decision is driven by the need to ensure the safety of everyone who steps inside a Stewart’s. The decision was made as similar dynamics are prompting a growing number of national retailers to shut down stores in cities across the country.

“We pride ourselves on being part of the fabric of the communities we serve, and we worked closely with Albany Police and City of Albany officials in attempt to resolve concerns at our Manning Boulevard shop,” said Stewart’s Shops president Gary Dake. “The safety of our partners and loyal customers remains an issue at this location.” Over the past two years, the number and severity of incidents at the Manning Boulevard shop have increased, ranging from robberies and theft to verbal and physical assaults. This has created an unsustainable business environment. This has not been the case at our shops on Henry Johnson Boulevard, New Scotland Avenue, Northern Boulevard and Western Avenue. Stewart’s is continuing to look for opportunities to expand our presence in the city.

The Manning Boulevard shop will close on Nov. 16. Our partners at this location have been offered positions at other Stewart’s Shops. We thank our customers for their patronage and encourage them to shop at our other locations at 204 Henry Johnson Blvd. in Albany and nearby 19 Fuller Road in Colonie.