ABINGTON, Mass. — The owners of a beloved Christmas store on the South Shore of Massachusetts recently announced plans to close after spreading holiday cheer for more than 40 years.
Rick and Karen Dubois, owners of The Christmas Place on Bedford Street in Abington, recently informed staffers of their intention to retire after the upcoming holiday season.
In a post on the company website, Rick and Karen wrote, “At this time, we would like to announce that we are retiring...We are truly overwhelmed with the outpouring of support and congratulations from so many of you. We never expected it. We are filled with joy that the Christmas Place was such a part of your family traditions, and we are glad to have shared them.”
The Christmas Store will remain open through the end of the 2022 holiday season, so longtime customers will still be able to load up on an array of decorations including an array of ornaments, ribbons, wreaths, artificial trees, garland, indoor and outdoor lighting essentials, full-size Nativity scenes, gifts, and more.
More than a dozen flavors of fudge, coffees, hot chocolate, hot mulled apple cider, old-fashion sodas, cookies, and fresh roasted nuts will be served up for customers who stop into the store.
Santa will also be on hand for visits and photos on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Rick and Karen added, “We would like to thank you for your loyalty, support and business for the last 41 years. It has been our pleasure to be a part of your life and we are glad that the Christmas Place is a fond part of many of your memories.”
Hundreds of loyal customers and former employees reacted to the news on Facebook.
One former employee wrote, “I love the store and the magic behind it. I was fortunate enough to have Rick and Karen as bosses for my first ever job as a young teen! Thank you both and congrats!”
A longtime customer expressed the hope that someone would step forward and purchase the business, writing, “Omg, I hope someone buys this and keeps up the tradition. This place has been a New England staple for Christmas spirit and childhood family memories. I always looked forward all year to the opening of this store to jumpstart the Christmas magic. For the sake of future generations, Pease, someone buy it and keep up the tradition.”
Rick and Karen noted that there are currently no plans or talks in place for the future of the business, and that they are planning on simply enjoying their final Christmas season with customers, friends, and family.
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