505 Supermarket Brings Lifeline to Grocery Desert
Learn more about how and why new grocery store 505 Supermarket stands out as an oasis in the International District's food desert.
by Samantha Anne Carrillo
It’s not easy to find healthy, reasonably priced groceries in Albuquerque’s International District. As UpLift Chronicles previously reported, last year’s closing of the Walmart on San Mateo Blvd. and Zuni Rd. has made accessing fresh, affordable food even more challenging in the diverse, densely populated neighborhood that New Mexico Black Leadership Council calls home. That’s why the new grocery store 505 Supermarket stands out as an oasis in this food desert.
High Desert Food Oasis
Hussein “Jay” Nimer, the proprietor of 505 Supermarket, launched the neighborhood shop in mid-August 2024. Having grown up in the International District, Nimer saw the opportunity to contribute to the neighborhood with his newest venture. “These big companies headed out as soon as it got a little tough for them. So I saw this as an opportunity to come in and give back to the community by seeing what people need and bringing more of this stuff they want,” said Nimer.
Neighborhood Vibes
A majority of news headlines tend to focus on crime and other public safety issues in the International District, but Nimer says that hasn’t been his experience since opening and while operating 505 Supermarket. “I haven’t experienced crime or anything yet. So far, it's been good. I've been getting a lot of people who live in the neighborhood who are very excited to have us here,” said Nimer. “We had one incident next door, where someone walked up, threw a rock through the window, and ran off. Other than that, we haven't really seen too much. So far, it's been pretty welcoming.”
Health & Convenience
505 Supermarket carries a range of household goods, from snacks, drinks, and groceries to cleaning supplies, over-the-counter medicines, and the like. Nimer also stocks clothing, body jewelry, and even frozen organic green chile grown in Lemitar, N.M. “Of course, we're covering all your grocery needs, anything you need to cook at home as well as cleaning supplies,” said Nimer. “We also have a lot of snacks and drinks for people who are working who just need a quick snack.”
More Than Just Groceries
Nimer has been building up the store’s stock and amenities since opening. The store now has an ATM available for customer use and he says offering bill payment through Western Union is something he’s actively working on. But there are also some things Nimer is intentionally choosing not to offer. To foster a family friendly environment, Nimer says he made a conscious decision not to stock cannabis paraphernalia.
Stop By and Shop
505 Supermarket is open every day from 7am to 10pm, and you’ll usually find Nimer in the store, where he hopes to continue building relationships with neighbors and customers and bringing sustenance and convenience to residents of the International District.