HALIFAX – A store that’s been in the Halifax Shopping Centre for more than 50 years will close its doors for good on Dec. 31.
Brian Hobrecker, vice-president of Kelly’s Luggage, says he feels his store is being squeezed out.
“They decided that they’re not going to renew our lease. I think they’re looking for more in the way of big corporate companies, rather than independents,” he said.
On Tuesday, the mall announced a $70-million redevelopment plan that will create 75,000 square feet of new retail space and relocate the food court.
Hobrecker has been working in the store his entire life and says the decision to close the 52-year-old business was not made lightly. He said sales have been slower in the past few years and the company was unable to find a new location.
“If I had my choice, we’d still be here for another five years at least because I’d like to work in some capacity,” he said.
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Hobrecker’s wife of 40 years said the decision was tough on both of them.
“It’s been a very difficult decision, but we’ve thought long and hard,” said Debbie Hobrecker. “I guess the decision was made when the Halifax Shopping Centre decided not to renew the lease. We had to say goodbye.”
Longtime customers said they were shocked and saddened to hear the store was closing.
“I’ve been shopping here my whole life, so I don’t know where I’m going to get my bags anymore,” said Debra Loughnan.
With just weeks to go before they close up shop for good, the Hobreckers say they are grateful for the loyal customers who have come into the store over the years.
“We have customers crying. We had two yesterday that were so sad to see us go,” said Brian Hobrecker. “We probably have a core of 1,000 to 1,500 customers that are just devastated.”
Debbie Hobrecker said they have even seen different generations of customers in the store.
“They’ve supported us and we’ve tried to be with them,” she said. “Sometimes they bring in their grandchildren or children.”
Stephanie Schnare, marketing director for the Halifax Shopping Centre, said she couldn’t go into specifics about leasing agreements. She said the mall enjoyed having Kelly’s Luggage as a tenant for so many years
She said despite the plans for expansion, there has not been an effort to push local businesses out of the mall.
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