Owners Anita and Bob Gokey announced that their beloved Karl’s Sausage Kitchen & European Market would be closing its doors for good by the end of the month.
Karl’s shared the sad news on Facebook, where community members posted disappointed reactions while also reflecting on fond memories of the shop throughout its 67-year lifespan of catering to residents seeking foods from European locales.
“This process unveiled itself very quickly,” the business said on Facebook. “We received an offer on the building in late November with the buyer needing to take possession in late winter. We did not want to make an announcement until we knew that the process and sale was going to be successful.”
The Gokey’s, who have owned the business since 2007, cited multiple supply chain issues. For instance, they said they rely on one meat supplier in Canada since they are willing to comply with new Massachusetts regulations regarding farm animals.
As a result, Karl’s had “significant delays” over the holidays that has led to a sparser supply of meats and cheeses. With the shop nearing its final days, all food, including their famous sausages, have been cleared out.
Many longtime fans of the store took to the comments to share their heartfelt support for the store and its place in the community. Some reminisced on visiting Karl’s decades ago as children and their continued efforts to shop there as adults.
“We used to make an outing with an enjoyable lunch and then shopping,” Patty Baker commented. “Walking in the shop always brought back memories of me being in Germany with my Oma.”
They will be open from this Friday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for anyone interested in their remaining kitchen items. Or stop by to just say one final goodbye to the giant juicy sausage sitting atop the Karl’s sign.
“To our loyal customers, thank you for your unwavering support, your smiles, and the stories you’ve shared with us,” the owners said. “Thank you for 67 extraordinary years—it has truly been an honor to serve you.”
