"GrandWay" stores, part of the Grand Union Company, were early discount department stores that closed in the 1970s due to unprofitability, with locations often becoming Kmart or other retailers; meanwhile, Canadian "Grand & Toy" office supply stores also closed their physical locations around 2014 to focus online. The closures reflect shifts in retail, with some older chains failing and newer ones adapting to e-commerce.

GrandWay (U.S. Department Stores)

Parent Company: Grand Union Company (a grocery chain).

Era: Active in the 1960s and early 1970s, described as early discount stores/supermarket combos.

Closure: The Grand Union Company closed its GrandWay discount stores in the mid-1970s, with the New York Times reporting losses and closure plans in 1974.

Legacy: Locations were often taken over by Kmart, notes this Facebook post.

Grand & Toy (Canadian Office Supply)

Closure: In 2014, Canadian office supply retailer Grand & Toy closed all its retail stores to transition to an online-only model.

Reason: A shift in customer preference towards online shopping for convenience and selection.