Roger’s Calls It Quits After 27 Years
By David Huck | Correspondent at January 16, 2024 | 9:00 am | Print
Roger’s Marketplace, an independently-run grocer that has operated in the Kensington section of town for nearly three decades, is closing its doors.
Owner Roger Perno cited the “changing face of food retailing along with a struggling economy” in his announcement on Jan. 9.
The store in recent years had made adjustments to try and attract a mix of clientele following the opening of a national chain supermarket on Farmington Avenue. Perno made updates to the interior of the store and offered a mix of products, from local beers and produce, to upscale items from Stonewall Kitchen, to cost-friendly items by IGA.
As a thanks to the community, Perno is hosting an open house at the supermarket’s last day of operation: Saturday Jan. 17, during which free coffee and cookies will be served up and give residents an opportunity to reminisce about the local institution.
Roger’s Marketplace was started in 1988. It had previously operated as Gnazzo’s. Perno said that his family and “loyal associates” have taken pride in providing quality products along with friendly service. Over the years, Perno noted that the market has employed thousands of people—from students starting their first jobs, to neighbors, relatives, and others, including a now Hollywood actor. Two workers even married.
“Words cannot describe the happiness my family and I have enjoyed in being a part of this wonderful community we have served for over 27 years,” Perno said in a post on Facebook. “I will never forget the great friends made, the wonderful customers, the fantastic suppliers and most of all the loyal, dedicated and caring associates I have been privileged to work with.”
Mayor Rachel Rochette was one of many town officials who expressed sadness upon hearing the news of the closing.
“Roger Perno and his family have been a fixture in the Berlin business community for over 27 years,” Rochette said. “They have been provided convenient and high quality products for Berlin citizens, especially for those of us in the Kensington area of town. More than that, Roger Perno has been an employer, a contributor to community causes, a leader in the Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club and so much more. I will miss Roger’s Marketplace and I wish the best for Roger and his family in their future endeavors.”
Many residents took to the market’s Facebook page, telling Perno and his employees that they will be missed. Several residents said that the market was one of the few stores that they consistently frequented in their lifetime.
Roger’s Marketplace was twice named “Family Business of the Year” by the Berlin and New Britain Chamber of Commerces and has been named a favorite among polls in local newspapers. Perno and his store have been proud supporters of numerous community projects and events over the years. The store has supported efforts by local athletic team and non-profit civic organizations. Perno has also welcomed groups like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to sell items during fundraising campaigns outside the store.
Upon exiting the store, customers were given an opportunity to place their receipts into boxes as part of an Educational Edge program. Perno said that those efforts led to more than $70,000 worth of school supplies being purchased for area schools.
The store also assisted in delivering meals and good to families in New Britain and Berlin during the holiday season.
Town officials say they have reached out to Sussman Realty, the owner of Ferndale Plaza to assist them in seeking a new tenant for the space.
