Weston, Mass.-based B.L. Ogilvie & Sons is closing its store and lumberyard permanently after 101 years of business, according to a letter to customers from president Kevin Whittermore.
“I’m so appreciative of the support from customers like you that have made it possible for Ogilvie’s to exceed the milestone of completing 100 years in business,” Whittermore wrote.
Whittermore said the decision to close came as the company’s “relevance” was dwindling in the new world of retail. The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak didn’t force the move to close, but helped accelerate plans to close the business. Before the development of the COVID-19 health crisis, B.L. Ogilvie’s had been planning a farewell celebration of store-wide closeout specials for customers. The plans for the celebration were spoiled by the CDC’s recommendations for social distancing.
“It’s been great to grow up in this wonderful town and work alongside relatives and many dedicated employees that truly feel more like extended family,” Whittermore wrote. “On behalf of all of us here at B.L. Ogilvie & Sons, I thank you for your many years of loyalty and support. It has been an honor to supply and serve this community as my great grandfather had set out to do those 101 years ago.”
