Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The end of a bagel era has come in Western New York.
Bagel Jay's management announced on social media Wednesday that it would be their last day in operation for they have sold all three of their properties to Vermont-based bagel chain, Bruegger's Bagels.
"I was Bagel Brothers, starting at Northtown Plaza in 1976. We sold to Manhattan Bagel, it seemed to be the right thing to do at that time, though I was young, and I got back into the business after we sold, and I'm 71 years old now, so I got 47 plus years in the business," said Jay Gershberg, CEO of Bagel Jay's.
Gershberg, who has been operating Bagel Jay's since 2001, says he's ready to retire and take the time to see his grandchildren who all live outside of the Western New York area.
"I was made an offer by a company that has done this and I've respected since the early 80s and it just seems to be the right thing to do. I can now get on and travel, see my grandkids more that live in other states."
Gershberg attributes the success of his business to quality assurance, which has caused him to build a loyal following of customers.
"We maintained good relationships with a lot of people, partnered with a lot of people to bring the products to Western New York. That's what we've done, and I think that was part of the recipe success, the hard work and a little bit of luck."
Bruegger's Bagels will now begin to transform the stores into their own, it is not known at this time when they will reopen.
"I think they make a good New York bagel," says Gershberg. "I've watched and followed them for better part of three decades, I also know the ownership. I think they'll take the baton and do well. No reason not to think so. [They] certainly know what they're doing."
Bruegger's Bagels began 40 years ago, opening up their first location in Troy, N.Y. The shop now has around 200 locations, the closest location prior to the purchase of Bagel Jay's being in Rochester.
Many Western New York residents will miss what many are calling a "Buffalo staple." We saw one customer put a post-it note on the front door of the Delaware Avenue location that reads: "You will all be missed."
A post-it note posted outside the store of Bagel Jay's on Delaware Avenue. (11/09/2023)Max Faery - WBEN
"Thank you for the patronage, the ability to do this, the loyalty, the partnering. Western New York has been wonderful. It was wonderful to bring up a family and grow a business in Western New York, a lot of friends and a lot of great memories, and I say thank you again," said Gershberg.
