A new chapter is opening for the former King Kullen supermarket site in Middle Island, as Giunta’s Meat Farms plans to occupy the Strathmore Commons Shopping Center space.
The announcement comes after widespread concern over the loss of the longtime King Kullen store, which closed its doors after 34 years. The departure of the anchor store created a “food desert,” leaving residents with few local options for fresh groceries.
“Not everyone in these communities has access to transportation, making trips to the grocery store a real challenge,” said activist Rosalie Hanson. “Many residents simply can’t hop in the car and drive miles to the next shopping center.”
“The arrival of Giunta’s Meat Farms is a welcome step forward for Middle Island,” said Senator Dean Murray, who worked to recruit stores to help address the food dilemma. “It doesn’t erase the challenges of the food desert here, but it offers relief to families who’ve been going without nearby access to fresh groceries. We need more of this kind of investment—stores that put community needs first.”
A family-owned chain, Giunta’s operates multiple Long Island locations and is known for its high-quality meats, fresh produce, and customer service. Community members are hopeful that the new store will become a hub for local families, providing both essential groceries and a gathering place for neighbors.
If everything proceeds on schedule, the opening of Giunta’s will restore a major access point for groceries, meats, produce, and other essentials in Middle Island, potentially easing the food access challenges that have risen sharply after the departure of King Kullen and the recent closing of the Coram Stop & Shop. Local leaders say the project underscores the importance of attracting businesses that serve community needs.