A shopping mall in the Central California city of Fresno rescinded in part a ban on Asian food trucks from participating in a mall-hosted farmer’s market.
The reversal comes following swift condemnation of the decision from vendors and community members.
“In the coming weeks, we will be establishing a long overdue process for reviewing all participants with the ‘product mix’ being top of mind,” the statement from River Park released to ABC30 and other media read.
Originally the ban was imposed on food trucks to prevent direct competition with restaurants inside the mall.
The statement, according to Your Central Valley, also included the apology demanded by some vendors.
“We deeply regret the hurt that others have genuinely expressed…We sincerely apologize for these communication missteps.”
However, at least one vendor, said it would not be returning due to the poor communication from River Park. Others said they would re-evaluate their relationship with the mall.
“Not only was River Park’s statement not a sincere apology, there was no acknowledgement of the willingness to learn more about the cultures we represent and why this situation is more than just about access,” said Christine Rose of Maarte Fresno.
Sticky Rice on Wheels told ABC30 said it would need more clarification of the new policy before deciding whether to return.
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