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Eckert’s Interiors closes after nearly a century
By Ashley Luthern
BOARDMAN
Photo
Eckert's Interiors closed this week as its owners enter retirement. The store was at 8574 Market St. for 30 years.
After 98 years in business, a family-owned furniture store closed its doors for the last time this week.
Eckert’s Interiors has been at 8574 Market St. for 30 years, but Thursday the store’s lights were dimmed as movers packed up inventory. Bentley, the family dog who usually frequented the back of the store, paced the showroom floor watching a customer who dropped by to bring the Eckerts lunch.
“We’re retiring, but the economy is a part of the decision,” said Mel Eckert, who owns the store with his wife, Peggie. “People are not purchasing high-end furniture, and the economy has affected business.”
Two years ago, the Eckerts decided to add a consignment shop to the business, but even as consignment sales outsold the regular store in number of sales, the dollar value was higher on the newer furniture side.
“Consignment did well but not enough,” Mel said.
Mel’s father, R.S. Eckert, started the business with an upholstery shop in 1912 and opened a storefront on Glenwood Avenue in 1930. The family moved the business to Mineral Ridge before settling in Boardman.
Peggie said the store wouldn’t have survived this long without the help of their children, Michele Eckert Dunn, a store decorator, and Mark Eckert, the store manager.
It was the family feel of the business that kept many customers returning, she said.
“We appreciate all of our loyal customers,” Peggie said. “A lot of them cried when they came in for the last time.”
The Market Street building is for sale, and new inventory will be sold at a retirement sale in September, Mel said.
Individuals who have furniture at the store can schedule a pickup time by calling 330-758-8349.