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12/07/2018 01:41 PMBRANFORD, CT DECEMBER 7, 2018 -- After four years, The Stand: Roadside BBQ & Market will close on December 23, 2018.
"We are so proud of what we've created here in Branford. The Stand started in 2015 with a food truck and a crazy idea to revitalize a landmark building in our beloved town. The mission was to bring people together and provide an environment to foster connection and community. Three years later, The Stand has become a place to enjoy great food, drinks and entertainment. The satisfaction we gained from realizing our dream of creating a space for our community to gather, connect, and have fun is immeasurable. Bringing this concept to fruition has been a joy" shared co-owner Greg Nobile.
In spite of a good spring, 2018 sales have been on the decline.
"As much as we enjoyed robust crowds in season, it became increasingly challenging to make the numbers work during weekdays and off season periods. It became apparent to us that our story had to come to an end sooner than we would have hoped on December 23rd. Over the next couple of weeks, we look forward to celebrating this incredible community and the amazing folks who made this dream a reality. Without these individuals, our journey would not have been possible, and we are indebted to them for their investment of time, talent, and heart", said co-owner Eamon Roche.
Since opening, The Stand has been proud to support countless nonprofit and community organizations including the Branford Festival, Branford Jazz on the Green, AIDS Project New Haven, the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter, Fair Haven Community Health, the
Branford Community Foundation, the Alzheimer's Association, Branford High School, Walsh Intermediate Performing Arts, the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, Brian's Hope, the Madison Turkey Trot, Camp Rising Sun, and more. It has also been home to the Branford Community Garden's Seed, Weed, and Feed Program to benefit the Community Dining Room.
The Stand's owners, Greg Nobile and Eamon Roche, will continue operating their tiki inspired piano bar, The Friki Tiki, in 2019, and hope to identify ways to bring more sustainable small businesses to the community they call home. Nobile stated, "We believe in Branford, we love our community, and we are excited about continuing to invest in the future of the shoreline."