Small Businesses Struggle to Survive

Quality Cash Market is set to be auctioned May 23rd

This week, when I needed to pick up some last minute grocery items, I swung by Quality Cash Market in East Concord. I was disappointed that the freezer that held the locally made ice cream from Walpole Creamery was empty and the corner that had displayed wine from the Gilmanton winery was also empty. When I asked the clerk if they would be restocking the ice cream, she just shrugged and said that the freezer was broken. So, I was not surprised, but nevertheless saddened, when the Concord Monitor reported on Thursday that the market is scheduled for a foreclosure auction later this month. Two years ago (March 2, 2015) I blogged about sources of local products and included the Quality Cash Market.

This is another example of how difficult it is for small businesses to survive, even when a business is seemingly doing well. I hope that the Quality Cash Market remains a market, because the local community needs and wants stores that are convenient and that provide a place to meet with your neighbors. This weekend is another NH Open Doors weekend as well as the first Capital Arts Festival in New Hampshire. The forecast is for rain, so it is a perfect opportunity to get out and see what local artists and businesses have to offer. And, whenever possible, support their endeavors with your dollars. 

May 25, 2017 Update: The Concord Monitor reported that a family member stepped in to pay off the mortgage and save the business from foreclosure. For now, store manager Liz Duncan, daughter of owner Tom Heath will be able to keep serving the customers of East Concord, and for that many are  grateful.