By Michelle Price
Special to the UCBJ
COOKEVILLE – After almost 60 years in business, the ongoing effects of COVID and the imminent opening of another major chain grocery store (Food City) have led Spring Street Supermarket to announce it will soon be closing its doors permanently.
Owners John and Sally DePriest announced plans to close the supermarket today via an announcement posted on a board just inside its doors thanking its customers for 50+ years.
“We’ve been here a long time, and the sad thing is if they’re not here shopping, it’s not being supported,” said Sally. “It’s been in my husband’s family for almost 60 years.”
The store was started by John’s father, Leo DePriest. Over the years, Leo had multiple grocery stores in Cookeville, including stores on 10th Street, Willow Avenue and on Spring Street across from the Dairy Queen. The current store is located in sight of the company’s original store.
The store will now be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sally said there is no set date for closing, and they plan to do weekly price reductions until the inventory is gone.
The notice from John and Sally stated, “Many folks have memories of Spring St. and we hope you will continue to pass them along. We have enjoyed being part of your lives and we wish you all the best.”
