A beloved family-run grocery store in Florida is facing closure. The establishment has been open for the past 43 years. But due to the economy, it doesn’t know if it can keep its doors open past the end of the year.

John Wong started Wong Kai Imports with his two brothers and a dream in 1983. An immigrant to America, Wong opened a beloved Asian market in Manatee County. However, tariffs on goods and the increase of prices of food have put an economic strain on the store.

Speaking with NPR, Wong says that he doesn’t know if he can stay open despite customers pleading with him not to close.

“I talk to a lot of customers. They told me, ‘Mr. Wong, don’t close. Stay open for another three years,'” said Wong, “I said, ‘I try, but it’s hard. It’s very hard.'”

Florida Grocery Store Uncertain F

See Full Page