News

Actions

Longtime Family Business Decides to Close its Doors

Posted
and last updated

WYOMING, Mich.– They’ve served the Wyoming community for over 60 years but the longtime family owned business is closing its doors in September.

The owners of Leatherman Hardware, located at the corner of 36th and Clyde Park, plan to close September 21st.

For 62 years, Doug Leatherman’s family has made a name for itself, catering mostly to new homeowners and young families over the years. But now, a chapter in his family’s history is coming to a close.

“Nobody else in the family is interested in taking over or being a partner in the store, mostly because its hard work and not a whole lot of money,” said Leatherman.

The family has changed with the times. But, with more and more people shopping at big chain stores, Leatherman said it’s getting harder to keep up.

“They only think the bigger your store is, the cheaper your prices are,” explained Leatherman. “On some things it is, but on 75% of the stuff, we might be a little higher or lower but our service is well worth that.”

The family has shared a lot with their customers. The store is filled with old family pictures and their love of the University of Michigan.

Now, as Doug plans for retirement, he wants everyone to know how much they meant to his family.

“I want to thank all my customers for 62 years and for, um, for taking care of us and hopefully we’ve taken care of you.”

Leatherman plans to host a customer appreciation picnic September 14th.