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Angel investors step up for ‘miracle’ save of Burrini’s Olde World Market in Randolph

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Angel investors step up for ‘miracle’ save of Burrini’s Olde World Market in Randolph

They said it would take a miracle to save Burrini’s Olde Worlde Market in Randolph. And that’s just what they got, in the form of two loyal customers turned angel investors to partner with the multi-generational family business.

Following the announcement that it would close last month after nearly 60 years, Randolph residents were thrilled to hear Burrini’s would stay open and is now filling orders for Thanksgiving dinners.

“It was one of the best experiences of my life while at the same time going through the worst,” Peter Burrini told the Daily Record.

Cherished in the community for its prime meats, home-cooked specialties, holiday catering and more, Burrini’s posted on its Facebook page in early October that “barring a miracle,” and “with a heavy heart,” it would close forever on Oct. 13.

Burrini said his business had been sliding over the past few years, burdened by the COVID lockdown and other challenges typical to small family operations. He considered starting an online fundraiser, such as the one that recently saved another beloved local food destination on the Randolph-Chester Township border – Bill’s Luncehonette. But even with a successful fundraiser, Burrini said “he did not see a path” to sustain the business.

Then, two days before the final closing date, a friendly customer stepped up to say that he and another man – “two families, really” – were interested in “continuing Burrini’s.”

“They are more than angel investors,” Burrini said. “They are buying into a losing business.”

By then, the public had already responded with an outpouring of emotion that brought loyal customers to the store, not only to say goodbye, but to buy up all their favorite items while they still could.

Burrini said the response was so overwhelming that while he was trying to empty his shelves, he had to order more inventory to meet the demand. “It was crazy,” he said.

“You always knew you gave your best, but you don’t really understand how much that was felt,” Burrini said of the public response. “But I found out. So many people came in. So many tears and hugs. There were cards and letters all over the window. Just wonderful things on Facebook.”

So instead of closing on Oct. 13, Burrini’s opened as usual, with an unlikely but welcome announcement.

“Because of your amazing support, we will be able to keep our doors OPEN and reorganize,” the market posted on social media. “If the past two weeks have shown us anything, it is that we have the BEST customers! You all rallied by showing up and supporting us. We have been deeply touched by all of your cards, well wishes and kind words. The amount of love we felt from the community was overwhelming, tears were shed and hugs were given.”

With new partners – who agreed to keep family members and other staff on the payroll – a tough year is ending on a bright note.

They are still restocking shelves and making other adjustments, but the staff is already preparing to fill its orders for Thanksgiving dinners and other upcoming holiday menu traditions.

“It’s not too late to order,” Burrini said. “We’ll work day and night.”

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