A furniture store is closing its doors after servicing the Border City for over three decades. Owners Elaine and Ken Lawrence are closing Midwest Furniture & Appliance and the La-Z-Boy Gallery of Lloydminster.
The couple is retiring and Elaine Lawrence says it was a bittersweet decision to close the store.
“We’re not getting any younger and fighting this economy we thought ‘Why are we doing this?’” Elaine says with a laugh. “But it was a hard decision because it has a massive impact on our community to lose two major stores. It doesn’t come by lightly and it affects a lot of people and our staff.”
Lawrence says they looked at different options to keep the store running but weren’t able to find a buyer. Since announcing the closure, the couple has been talking with customers and putting their worries to rest.
“People have concerns about they may have some products they may have ordered and what’s going to happen. Everything is still in cue and we’ll see everything through with it,” Lawrence says. “They’re our customers and we’re going to look after them right to the end and point them in the right direction for any concerns they have.”
Lawrence isn’t sure of what the couple will do during retirement but knows they will stay in the community.
“We’re tired and ready to have a little rest and relaxation and be able to enjoy our family and grandchildren. From there, we’re not sure what direction we’ll take.”
Lawrence says she’s grateful to the community and clientele who have supported them and hopes more Lloydminster residents can give back to the small businesses in the city.
“We’ve been very privileged that our customers have supported the businesses over the years and we have in turn been able to support different charities and countless sports groups,” she says. “It’s vital that people support local independent businesses; it’s what makes our community.”
A going out of business sale will start on September 27 and the store will permanently close when all items are sold.