2024 Recap: 5 Businesses That Said Goodbye to Maricopa

Several Local Businesses in Maricopa Announce Closures in Recent Months

In a series of unexpected developments, several businesses in Maricopa have closed their doors, leaving employees and patrons in shock. One such establishment is Dell’s Pizza & Wings Express, which shut down its Maricopa location in February, just nine months after opening. The Casa Grande-based restaurant described the decision as “difficult” but stated that a new pizza restaurant would take its place. Employees, including managers, were taken by surprise and received limited severance. A representative assured that affected workers would receive assistance and references for the incoming Vero Chicago.

May saw the closure of all 371 locations of discount retailer 99 Cents Only across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas, including its Maricopa branch. This decision ended 40 years of operation. Interim CEO Mike Simoncic labeled the closure “extremely difficult,” pointing to significant shifts in the retail landscape as a contributing factor.

Further, in November, Big 5 Sporting Goods announced it would close its store located on Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway due to rising rent expenses. Employees were informed three weeks prior to the closure, and 15 staff members were relocated to other stores. The vacancy is set to be transformed into a school specializing in autism and ADHD education.

Also closing in November was Exceptional Pets, a clinic that had served the Maricopa and Mesa communities since 2019. Citing nationwide shortages and tumultuous economic conditions, the closure left many pet owners searching for alternative veterinary options. Local resident Clint Wooton expressed concern over losing the “excellent service” their pets had received.

Finally, The Roost Sports Bar & Café, a popular local venue that had been operating for a decade, closed in December. Formerly known as True Grit Tavern, the establishment underwent a renovation on the show Bar Rescue. Owner Ralph Skrzypczak announced the closure on social media, thanking patrons for their support, and hinted at a new Mexican restaurant planned to replace it, potentially Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen from Mesa.

These recent closures highlight the continuing challenges faced by local businesses in Maricopa, impacting employees and the community alike.