LIVERPOOL – It’s a place people might go to find craft supplies, treats for their pets, yarn, toiletries, stickers or a pair of socks. It’s the Shiretown Discount Emporium.
Liverpool’s longtime Main Street businesses is set to close shop May 31.
The store, which some may also remember as Pay A Dollar, has been part of Liverpool’s downtown core for about 23 or 24 years, and Teade Patterson has been owner for 14 years.
Patterson says she’s decided to close for a few reasons. Her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the last five years, and his health has been getting worse. On top of that, Patterson also has a store in Pictou, and the commute to and from the two businesses is a lot.
“It just seems like the right time,” said Patterson.
Judi Maillett joined Shiretown’s team as manager six years ago.
She says though the staff isn’t happy about the business closing, everyone will move on. The staff has watched Patterson’s husband “decline” since his diagnosis, explained Patterson and Maillett.
“I think it’s going to be a big, big gap, especially for this area,” said Maillett about what the closure would mean for the downtown area. “Because it’s been here so long, and people rely on it.”
Managing the store has been a learning experience, said Maillett. What she’s enjoyed most about the job over the years is seeing all the people that come in.
Maillett says she thinks Shiretown’s closing will leave a big hole on Main Street.
From now until the store closes, certain items will be 25 to 70 per cent off, said Patterson. In addition to regular hours, the store is scheduled to be open Saturdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. until May 31.
