As things start to reopen, more closings at the Plaza — along with one new tenant

A handful of Country Club Plaza retailers are reopening their doors this week following a two-month shutdown for the COVID-19 crisis. But some will be ceasing operations.

▪ Vom Fass, 515 Nichols Road, sells gourmet food products including Extra Virgin olive oil, balsamic and fruit vinegar, spirits and spices. It is having a store liquidation with items 20 percent off (and wine $1 off).

Franchisee Brett Guthrie said he has seen foot traffic and sales decrease significantly since the demolition of the Plaza’s west side and start of construction for the new Nordstrom store in September. Then came the two-month shutdown.

“It was a long term commitment. As a business owner you don’t want to give up on your dream,” he said.

▪ Sperry Top-Sider, 425 Nichols Road. A manager said the store officially closed permanently two months ago “due to traffic,” when other retailers temporarily closed for the COVID-19 crisis. Workers were in the store Wednesday packing up merchandise. He declined further comment.

Corporate officials with Sperry couldn’t be reached for comment.

▪ Green Grove, 340 W. 47th St. A Kansas City-based distributor of high-quality CBD oil and other CBD products. Green Grove had a short term lease.

“We did that for brand awareness and after a year it accomplished that,” said Mike O’Hara, founder and CEO. “We are focusing on what we are best at and that is our eCommerce platform and wholesale fulfillment.”

▪ The Art of Shaving, 327 W. 47th St. The store is still listed on the company’s website but the sign has been removed from the facade and no merchandise is on the shelves. Company officials couldn’t be reached for comment.

Kasey Vena, general manager of the Plaza, confirmed the lease had expired on Green Grove but declined to comment on Vom Fass, Sperry and the Art of Shaving.

The Plaza has signed one new tenant.

Nickel & Suede in Liberty plans to open a store at 232 Nichols Road, next to Untuckit. Nickel & Suede makes lightweight leather earrings, leather cuffs, rings and other accessories. An August opening is scheduled.

It also is opening a store in Dallas in June.