Zimmerman's Discount in Kensington Market to close

Zimmerman's Discount is closing for good in the new year. The announcement comes after more than 60 years in business, and while national brands have been clamouring to infiltrate the Market for years, the incoming retailer will not be one of them.

Protectors of independent businesses in the Market can breathe a sigh of relief as the Toronto Star reports that 4 Life Natural Foods, currently located on Augusta, is set to take over the large space and transform it into an organic market crowned by a greenhouse roof. The new spot is set to be collectively owned and operated by its workers. As sad as it might be to see a staple storefront disappear, one suspects that there won't be too many tears shed given the early plans for a marquee health food store.

Photo by Susan Cromwell on Flickr