A buyer from Kings County has purchased the Andrew Connolly Dispensing Optician Ltd. store on Water Street in Windsor.
The business transaction marks the end of an era for Andrew, who worked as a licensed optician for about 36 years.
In his time on Water Street, Andrew gained a reputation as an eyewear whiz capable of fixing frames some would consider beyond repair.
“We built our business on good quality products and service,” said Andrew, who believes this philosophy helped their independently-owned store survive through tough economic times.
“We always enjoyed having people in the store.”
They catered to the needs of the community by offering the latest trends in eyewear and, above all else, just plain being there.
Andrew, in particular, only missed two days of work in 36 years.
“One of those days I had to send him home because he was sitting here shivering in the corner,” said Rita.
Sick days were few and far between in the two-person operation.
“There's no one to take your place, so you have to do it.That's the challenge of self employment,” said Rita.
Then there are the benefits they will dearly miss — the customers, the community, and the relationships with fellow downtown merchants.
The Ashdale couple counted many of their clients among their friends. And they’re relieved to know they are leaving their friends in good hands.
David White, owner of Bruce A. Wile Optician Ltd. in Kentville, bought Connolly’s store.
“I thought each store would complement each other. Andy is more of a boutique and has a lot of frames that no one else has, and I have a few lines that way,” he said.
White, who plans to operate the business under the Connolly name, has worked with Andrew in Windsor in the past.
“We do have the same morals and thoughts about how dispensing should be and about eyewear,” said White, who will work alongside his wife, Pam, and licensed dispensing optician Robert Bennett in Windsor.
