By Jason KUROSU

Cordon’s Ranch Market has been sold after 16 years of operation, giving way to Moss Supermarket, the newest addition to the business community, which will open early July.

Tigran Babayan, part owner of Moss Supermarket along with Mike Moss, said the market will be open by “July 7th at the latest.”

Gus Malouf, who owned and operated Cordon’s through its 16 years, said he feels “lousy” regarding the fate of Cordon’s. But Malouf said he has experience managing over 10 supermarkets in the past and his future plans will likely involve opening another market somewhere.

In the meantime, Moss Supermarket is still being prepped for the opening, with the installation of cash registers, new sinks and exterior planting among the final touches. The store has been undergoing renovations since Cordon’s closed about two months ago.

Babayan said the philosophy of the store is centered around keeping items fresh and well-stocked, with fresh meat coming weekly, fresh produce coming daily and a revolving door of manager’s specials, deals which will rotate on a regular basis.

“How do we get you to come back?” said Babayan when describing the importance of quality and availability for customers. “Our goal is community.”

Moss Supermarket will also have a restaurant as Cordon’s did. The restaurant has not yet been named, but Babayan said a menu is being put together that could feature anything from burgers to Mediterranean food.

While Moss brings over 10 years of supermarket experience to the Honolulu Avenue location, a supermarket is a fairly new venture for Babayan, a 20-year-old business student at California State University, Northridge. However, Babayan expressed confidence in the store’s prospects.

“In five years’ time, this won’t be the only Moss,” said Babayan.

Moss Supermarket at 2931 Honolulu Ave. in Montrose will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.