Another cherished piece of Detroit’s community is getting ready to close its doors, and for many locals, it feels like the end of an era.
Rocky’s Peanut Company — the cozy downtown snack and spice shop that’s been part of Eastern Market life for decades — has announced that it’s shutting down after an incredible 60-year run.
Family-Owned Rocky’s Is Bowing Out After Six Decades
The news came via Instagram, where the shop shared a heartfelt message with its customers:
“It is with a heavy heart that, after many years, decades, and family generations, Rocky’s will be closing its doors.”
Owner Patricia Russo, who has run the store with love and dedication, says the decision comes as she prepares for retirement.
There’s no final date yet, but the goal is to sell off the remaining products — and the building — by October.
A Sweet Cornerstone of Eastern Market
Rocky’s has been a fixture in Detroit since the 1950s, becoming a go-to destination in the city’s Eastern Market district.
Whether you were stopping in for bulk salted peanuts, burger seasoning, or those big bins of colorful candies, the shop had a little something for everyone.
Its unique charm wasn’t just in the products, but in the old-school shopping experience that kept generations coming back.
Customers Share Bittersweet Memories
As news of the closure spread, fans of Rocky’s took to social media to share their love and memories.
One user on Reddit simply wrote, “RIP my childhood.
There was no greater experience than picking random candies from those bins.”
Another Instagram follower added, “The candy and cashews will be missed… You all had a great run.”
It’s clear the store wasn’t just a place to grab a snack — it was a tradition, a memory-maker, and a slice of local flavor that can’t easily be replaced.
The Russo Family Reflects on the Decision
Patricia Russo told DailyMail.com the choice to close didn’t come lightly.
“This decision comes after much reflection on the future of the business and our family,” she shared.
“We are humbled by the outpouring of love and support from our loyal customers.”
Part of a Bigger Retail Shift
Rocky’s isn’t alone in its goodbye. So far in 2025, over 5,000 brick-and-mortar businesses in the U.S. have permanently closed — and experts say we could see that number hit 15,000 by the end of the year.
Major chains like Rite Aid, Party City, and Joann’s have filed for bankruptcy and shut hundreds of stores.
Even retail giants like Macy’s and Kohl’s have been scaling back their in-person locations.
The culprits? A mix of rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and the continued dominance of online shopping.
Is This the End for Physical Retail?
Despite the headlines, not everyone believes we’re watching retail collapse in real-time.
Retail analyst Neil Saunders told DailyMail.com,
“The retail apocalypse is fake news.”
“What we’re really seeing is the exit of weaker players — the businesses that couldn’t keep up or give consumers a strong reason to visit their stores.”
So while some big names are disappearing from shopping districts, others are finding new ways to adapt, evolve, and thrive.
What’s Next for Detroit and Its Shoppers?
With Rocky’s on its way out, there’s no doubt Detroiters will feel the absence of the sweet-smelling, spice-filled shop that has stood the test of time.
For now, loyal fans have a few more months to swing by, stock up on goodies, and say goodbye to a store that’s been part of the city’s story for generations.
