By Victor Fanuel
Harare – Food Lover’s Market has announced it will close two of its Harare stores in Avondale and Borrowdale before the end of June 2025.
The Borrowdale branch will cease operations first on 8 June, followed by the Avondale outlet two weeks later on 22 June.
The company confirmed the closures on social media, thanking customers for their support over the years.
It also encouraged shoppers to take advantage of daily in-store specials as a farewell gesture before the stores shut down.
In a message to the Avondale community, the retailer stated it was winding down operations but still offering “fresh value” with daily promotions until closing.
Similarly, the Borrowdale post described the store as a “local favourite” and expressed gratitude for customer loyalty.
The shutdown comes nearly two years after OK Zimbabwe, the country’s largest retail group acquired Food Lover’s Market Zimbabwe in 2023.
The deal included the Avondale, Borrowdale, and Bulawayo Bradfield outlets, marking OK Zimbabwe’s expansion into premium grocery retailing.
However, not all locations were part of the acquisition.
The Greendale branch remained independent and continues to operate.
The closure of the two branches appears to be part of OK Zimbabwe’s efforts to streamline operations and stabilize finances.
In April 2025, the company announced plans to raise US$30 million through a mix of rights issues, private investments, and loans.
The funds are intended to restock shelves and settle supplier debts.
At the time, the company cited “internal and external pressures” for its cash flow challenges but did not provide further details.
So far, there has been no confirmation on whether the Bulawayo Bradfield store, the last remaining outlet from the acquisition will also be affected.
