It’s good news that Hannaford will shortly move into the vacant supermarket on Route 1, but we’re sure many share some regret that Garden Street Market, as a consequence, will close.

A downtown market with decent parking, a good selection and familiar faces is a rarity and the heyday of Kennebunk’s store will long be remembered with nostalgia.

For the interests of the community and the market’s employees, the Hannaford deal to buy out the downtown market and begin operations in the former Stop & Shop makes good sense. Garden Street Market owner Dan Bowen and Hannaford reached agreement providing for the employment of the market’s current employees.

So, come this spring, shoppers will have an even larger selection of goods, a better parking layout, and ”“ except for Bowen himself ”“ the same familiar faces at the  market. It’s largely a win-win situation.

The departure of a key downtown business creates a challenge and an opportunity; finding a new commercial tenant may not be easy. Yet the thriving downtown district and Kennebunk’s civic efforts to preserve it ought to be considered vital assets by prospective tenants. And the longevity of Garden Street Market is clear evidence that the location is a good one.

Conceivably there are potential tenants that would be an even better match for this busy corner. We’re sure plenty of potential matchmakers are already at work on this challenge, and we wish them good luck.