Hunts Point Market still opposed to Walmart

The Hunts Point produce market is opposed to a New York City Walmart, regardless of whether the supermarket giant sources its produce from Hunts Point. Market board member Joel Fierman said the invasion of Walmart would decimate local grocers and destroy the city, according to the Daily News.

“It’s not about the business they throw at us,” he said. “It’s about the damage they do. Walmart wouldn’t be a good fit for the city.”

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn has been working on a deal that would require Walmart to purchase produce for any New York City store at Hunts Point.

The supermarket has been eyeing a location in Brooklyn and has offered to buy 5 percent of its produce from the South Bronx market. Fierman called the offer “a pittance.”

Quinn has insisted she wants to protect the market, calling it “critical to … our local economy.” She said Walmart should find ways to mitigate “potential negative impacts.” [NYDN]