Ukrop’s Super Market said Friday that it will close its Roanoke store next month, after more than two years of trying to make its concept work in the Star City. The Richmond-based grocer will shutter its Franklin Road store on Oct. 24.

"We are making this announcement this afternoon after talking with store leadership about this tough decision," said Bobby Ukrop, Ukrop’s chairman, president and CEO, in a news release. "We wish it had worked out differently. It’s painful for many reasons, not the least of which is that we will no longer be able to offer employment to associates who have diligently served Ivy Market customers."

First Market Bank inside the Ukrop's will remain open until Dec. 18.

The 58,000-square-foot Ukrop’s came to Roanoke in June 2007, like a celebrated rock star. But its sales did not meet the company’s expectations. Ukrop's stores are closed on Sundays and do not sell alcohol.

Walgreens opened last month adjacent to Ukrop’s.