Community businesses like Burch’s Hardware in Minneapolis, Minnesota stand as an example of the changing times. The store, which had been an Uptown staple for 80 years, has closed. It’s not the first victim of the recession, nor will it be the last. We’ve all seen the “store closing” or “going out of business” signs in the local windows. Some business owners are calling this economic downturn the final disappearing act for independent business.
The comparison is no surprise. Even in the lean months, employees have to be paid, overhead and in-store stock has to be maintained and covered, vendors accounts have to be settled. It’s all just part of the daily grind at your local hardware store. So what happens when the ends can no longer be met?
Nurturing Business, Cultivating Hope
