Wheatsville Food Co-op has called off plans to acquire two Fresh Plus locations in North Austin, citing financial concerns discovered during the due diligence process. The co-op had intended to open new stores at 408 E. 43rd Street in Hyde Park and 2917 W. Anderson Lane in Allandale, but determined that the investment would not be in the best interests of its long-term success.
This decision also affects Wheatsville’s plans to replace its Guadalupe Street location, which is scheduled to close in December 2026. General Manager Bill Bickford stated that, after exploring available real estate in North-Central Austin over the past few years, the co-op does not expect to find a suitable replacement site within the remaining 15 months of its lease term.
In preparation for the Guadalupe store’s closure, Wheatsville has begun reducing inventory, discontinuing deli counter service, and relocating equipment to the South Lamar store. Staff at the Guadalupe location are being offered roles at the South Lamar store, job placement services, and additional compensation during the transition period.
Wheatsville Co-op, a member-owned grocery store founded in 1976, has been a staple in Austin’s food scene for nearly five decades. The co-op continues to operate its South Lamar location and remains open to exploring other opportunities to serve the Austin community in the future.