John Catsimatidis, owner of Gristedes supermarkets, expressed willingness to assist in a pilot program for city-run grocery stores proposed by socialist candidate Zohran Mamdani. However, he conditioned his support on the city compensating for losses incurred from shoplifting. Mamdani's plan aims to reduce grocery prices by running non-profit supermarkets. The proposal has attracted criticism, with opponents warning of a 'Soviet'-style market system and limited consumer choice. Catsimatidis, while open to collaboration, has no intention of voting for Mamdani in the upcoming primary.
"If they want to try an experiment, I will be helpful - as long as the city makes up the shortfall for shoplifting," Catsimatidis told The Post.
"These stores will operate without profit motive, or having to pay property taxes or rent, and will pass those savings onto you," Mamdani said in a TikTok video.
Mamdani's plan, which calls for one store in each borough, would cost an estimated $60 million.
Catsimatidis stated, "It could help the city feed the hungry. There's a deal to be made. We'll help make it happen."
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