By Randy Tucker
The Cincinnati Enquirer

The IGA supermarket in Green Township has succumbed to cutthroat competition in one of the most competitive grocery markets in the Midwest.

Owner Rick Auberger said the supermarket at 5915 Colerain Ave. would close by the end of next week because of declining foot traffic and sales.

"Yes, we're closing because of competition," Auberger said. "But I don't know that it is as much true competition as the perception in the customer's eye."

Like many independently owned supermarkets, the Green Township IGA has struggled to find a niche amid stiff competition from discount food sellers and larger traditional grocery chains such as Meijer and Kroger.

The bigger competitors benefit from greater buying power and better marketing, which often allows them to sell food for less than independent operators.

Price was a central issue in Auberger's decision to close, he said.

"They (customers) think that bigger is better, and if they go to Kroger or Meijer they'll find this or that for less," he said. "But my prices have always been competitive."

Auberger said he would hold a storewide promotion offering 30-percent-off merchandise until the store closes.

E-mail rtucker@enquirer.com