Chicago’s beloved upscale convenience chain, Foxtrot, surprised many with its abrupt closure in April. But just weeks later, news has emerged that signals a potential comeback for the brand. Here’s a breakdown of what we know so far:
A Phoenix From the Ashes:
The co-founder of Foxtrot, Mike LaVitola, is leading the charge for the company’s revival. After winning an auction for Foxtrot’s assets in May, LaVitola has announced plans to reopen roughly 15 stores across Chicago, Dallas, and Austin this summer. This news brings a sigh of relief to fans of the brand and potentially offers a second chance for the unique retail experience Foxtrot provided.
Second Chances for Employees:
The sudden closure left many Foxtrot employees scrambling. However, there’s a glimmer of hope for those who lost their jobs. The new iteration of Foxtrot has reportedly reached out to former employees, expressing interest in rehiring some for the reopening stores. This effort to bring back familiar faces could foster a sense of continuity and rebuild trust with the customer base.
Addressing the Past, Building the Future:
The closure left a trail of unanswered questions and unpaid invoices with vendors. LaVitola acknowledges the need to rebuild trust and mend relationships. He has expressed a focus on working with small, local makers, a core aspect of Foxtrot’s original appeal. Whether the new Foxtrot can successfully navigate these financial hurdles remains to be seen.
Questions Remain:
While the news of a Foxtrot revival is positive, there are still details left unanswered. With only a portion of the original stores planned for reopening, it’s unclear which locations will make the cut. Additionally, the full extent of LaVitola’s plan to address outstanding invoices and vendor relations is yet to be revealed.
A New Chapter for Foxtrot?
The coming months will be crucial for Foxtrot. The company must not only navigate the logistics of reopening stores but also win back the trust of customers and vendors. If LaVitola can successfully address these challenges, Foxtrot may yet reclaim its place as a Chicago favorite.
