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| - When I lived in Arcadia, I largely ignored F&E. Since moving into Melrose, this store is walking distance from my home. How I lived without shopping here I'll never figure out. This store quickly became my go-to, all was right and good. Five stars all the way.
But then, something changed. It wasn't the news of corporate doom, no, but I bet that's why. Something changed in the store -- and it's why this is not a five-star review. That something is fresh bread. Seriously, F&E are you kidding anyone with this "new" formula of bread you're peddling?
F&E's fresh baked bread was among the best bread I had ever eaten, and certainly tops for grocery store bakery fare. The price was amazing, and the crusty, just right kind of chewy carb heaven was sublime. The bread was a starring attraction that led me to other purchases. I'd go in for bread, and come out with with half the store.
Now ... sigh. This "new" bread is a disaster. I was hopeful when it rolled out in store that it was a test, a mistake, a joke ... but alas it's still there. The new bread is too doughy, lacks crust, the flavor is off. Lowering product quality, while raising the price, is an insult. I'm really surprised no one else has complained about this -- which makes me wonder if this change is not universal. If that is so, I'm going to be very angry.
If anything, I'm guessing this quality change was made as a cost savings. This is a great example of cutting off your nose to spite your face. Tracking my spending in this store, there's a sharp decline since the bread has changed. I certainly can't be the only customer in this camp.
Um, slow clap for crappy business decisions, like shaving costs at the expense of profits? Sigh, it breaks my carb-loving heart.
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