What Your Neighbors Want To See In Andover: TJs, TJs And A Bakery

ANDOVER, MA — Patch asked readers what businesses they want to see come to town in 2020, and Andover residents spoke with one voice — almost. Commenter after commenter agreed: they want a Trader Joe's. Currently, the nearest locations are in Burlington and Peabody.

While one commenter questioned other residents' love of the grocery store chain, eleven others voiced their support, whether it goes in Andover proper or just somewhere in the Merrimack Valley. Others called for a bakery, an independent movie theater and other entertainment options.

"How about another hair salon or coffee place? (I'm totally kidding) Team Trader Joe's!" wrote Jayme Beth.

"Trader Joe's. Knowing that they only develop in areas with terrible parking amenities we should be at the top of their list," answered Linda Piejak Mitchell.

Jessica Poirer was the one voice in opposition, writing, "I don't understand the obsession with trader Joe's I think it's terrible."

Doreen Scolastico Riley and Denise Engelhart both wanted a bakery, specifically an Italian bakery, in Scolastico Riley's case. Engelhart also joined the Trader Joe's chorus and said she wants to see more entertainment in the town, such as a movie theater or bowling.

"Local independent movie theater," wrote Laurie Howell Hodges.

"A store like Athlete’s Corner...where you could buy a coat, sweatshirt or sneakers, Andover gear, etc," wrote Heather Dyer Harris.

Lisa Concemi Truchon didn't care what came to town, as long as it would be able to keep its doors open: "Anything that won't go out of business in a year."

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.