Demolition Begins on Condemned Vancouver Grocery Store

Kauffman Thriftway building deemed unfit and ordered demolished a year ago

Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Construction crews have begun demolishing the former Kauffman Thriftway grocery store building in Vancouver, Washington, nearly a year after the city condemned the property due to its deteriorating condition and partially collapsed roof.

Why it matters

The demolition of the long-vacant Kauffman Thriftway marks the end of an era for the building, which had served the local community for decades before falling into disrepair. Its closure and eventual demolition highlights the challenges faced by some older, independent grocery stores in maintaining their facilities and competing with larger chains.

The details

In April 2025, the city of Vancouver issued a demolition order for the 900 W. Fourth Plain Blvd. property, citing photos showing the building's partially collapsed roof and overall state of disrepair after sitting vacant for over four years.

  • The city of Vancouver condemned the Kauffman Thriftway building in April 2025.
  • Demolition crews began tearing down the building on April 2, 2026.

The players

City of Vancouver

The local government entity that condemned the Kauffman Thriftway building and ordered its demolition due to its deteriorating condition.

Kauffman Thriftway

The former grocery store that occupied the condemned building for decades before it fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The demolition of the Kauffman Thriftway building serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by independent, community-oriented businesses in maintaining aging infrastructure and competing with larger chains. Its closure and eventual demolition mark the end of an era for the local neighborhood.