Newtown Hardware House Set to Close

Thursday, Sept. 20:

Just days since Newtown Hardware House announced they were closing after 143 years in business, a local man has stepped up to buy the store.

Tuesday, Sept. 18:

With it’s red brick exterior and large display windows filled with various items on display, Newtown Hardware House has been a staple of South State Street in the borough for several lifetimes. In just weeks time, the store is set to close for good, according to a 8x11 computer paper sign posted in the window of the classic-looking store.

“The closing of Newtown Hardware is a major hit to the Newtown Borough business district,” President of the Newtown Business Association Mick Petrucci said Tuesday morning.

With the international downturn in the economy, increasing rent, the rise of big box hardware giants and huge growth in online shopping, stores like Newtown Hardware House have faced increasing competition. Many have not been able to keep up with the lack of sales tax, low prices and quick shipping that faceless internet retailers can offer.

Members of the community have worked over the past two years to try to turn the tide and help the 142-year-old wood floored store survive.

In 2011, the staff of the store and community supporters passed out thousands of “Save Newtown Hardware” bumper stickers in an effort to increase sales.

Then in April of this year, locals surprised the store with a “cash mob.” The mob dropped in on a Saturday morning, route: {:controller=>"articles", :action=>"show", :id=>"cash-mob-inundates-newtown-hardware-house"} --> and were encouraged to spend at least $20 in the store. Turnout for the event was huge,