Established in 1959 in Kensington Market, European Quality Meats has long been a Toronto institution recognized for its well-priced meat and signature smoked products like peameal bacon, sausages and deli meats. Alas, the end of an era has come; the original butcher counter on Baldwin was replaced in recent years by Sanagan's and now retail operations in Etobicoke will also cease.

When contacted for comment, a representative was able to confirm that the company has been sold and as per terms of the sale, the existing retail outlet will shutter. Final paperwork is still pending and no comment was offered on what the future holds for European Quality Meats or its 52,000 square foot plant in Brampton.