NEW BRITAIN, Conn. (WTIC Radio) - After more than 60 years of business in downtown New Britain, Amato's Toy and Hobby will be closing in February, store owners announced Wednesday.
The store will be open until its last day on Monday, February 28, co-owner Steve Amato shared online.
While it was a tough decision to make, an opportunity to sell the building came and it was time to go into retirement, Amato said.
"It's been fun. I have run this business since 1974, fresh out of high school. When my parents, Vinnie and Phyllis Amato, decided to retire in 2011, after almost 80 years, my wife and I took over," Amato said in a Facebook post.
Until its closing, the store's inventory will be sold at a reduced price.
Amato asks customers to stop by to say goodbye and to sign a guest book even if they don't want to buy anything.
"We have so many customers who have also become friends and family and we will miss you all. Thank you for your loyalty and support," he wrote.
Amato's Toy and Hobby in Middletown is still open.