A Kingfisher staple for grocery shoppers for nearly 50 years is closing its doors next month.

UnitedSupermarketsannounced via social media on Monday that its Kingfisher store is closing Aug. 16.

The grocery store chain had informed the owners of the building at which it’s located - 1215 S. Main St. - last week that it intended to close the store next month.

On Monday, the news became public.

The Facebook message read, in part: This was not an easy decision and it comes with heavy hearts. For years, you have welcomed us into your lives and allowed us to serve this community we care about so deeply.

Your loyalty, kindness and support have meant more to us than words can ever express. We hope you’ll stop by so we can thank you in person for being such an important part of our story.

With gratitude. United Supermarket-Kingfisher The Kingfisher location has been in operation since 1976.

United Supermarkets of Oklaho- ma was purchased by Homeland in 2008.

See our weekend edition for more news about the decision to close as well as local reaction.