Campaigners have launched a ''buy local'' initiative aimed at saving the Port Chalmers New World, as the wait continues for a decision on the supermarket's future by Foodstuffs.
The company had been expected to say yesterday whether it accepted a counterproposal put to Foodstuffs South Island retail operations general manager Alan Malcolmson during a meeting with campaigners on Friday.
Instead, campaign group spokeswoman Robyn Broughton said when contacted Mr Malcolmson had been in touch, but only to inform her any decision was now not likely for ''a couple of days''.
That was because Foodstuffs' board members in Australia were yet to have their say on the proposal, she was told.
In the meantime, campaigners had begun door-knocking to promote a ''buy local'' pledge sheet, encouraging West Harbour residents to do their ''main grocery shop'' at the supermarket.
It was confirmed earlier this month Foodstuffs planned to withdraw its New World brand from the store next month, and replace it with a Four Square brand, under new owner-operators.
The plan was expected to cost jobs, and residents feared higher prices and reduced range would hurt those unable to shop elsewhere, drive away customers and eventually lead to the store's closure.
Mrs Broughton would not be drawn yesterday on details of the counterproposal put to Foodstuffs, but she remained happy with the way Foodstuffs staff were handling discussions with the community.
''They haven't dismissed it, so we are hoping for a positive outcome.''
