Petty’s Fine Foods, the iconic specialty food store in Tulsa’s Utica Square, will close in February 2016. The midtown store, known for its wide selection of groceries, meats, produce, specialty foods and Catering by Maureen, has been a staple of Tulsa shoppers for more than 70 years.

According to owner Scott Petty, the decision was made after months of careful consideration and recent meetings with Helmerich & Payne, owners of Utica Square.

“This is time for a new direction,” said Petty. “We feel fortunate to have been a part of so many people’s lives. We have had generations of loyal customers and dedicated employees. That’s what has made the store so special over the years.”

Petty’s employs about 50 people and management is committed to finding jobs for all of them. He added that while the store is closing in Utica Square, Petty’s will be open to exploring other opportunities in the future.

Petty’s Fine Foods was established in 1945 by L.G. Rowan and Robert Petty. The business, which was then called Rowan & Petty, opened at the corner of East 21st Street and South Wheeling Avenue, across from the present-day location of Utica Square. The store quickly became known as the best purveyor of meats and groceries in Tulsa.

During the 1940s and 1950s, Rowan & Petty established itself as a specialty food store offering charge accounts, delivery services, quality meats and outstanding service. Petty’s Fine Foods moved to its current location in 1972.

“We’re very grateful to Helmerich and Payne, and the property management team, for everything they have done for us over the years,” he said. “They have always treated us well, and I know they will develop exciting plans for the future of this location and Utica Square.”