Increased competition hit home when longtime Willmar Holm Brothers Sportshop and Hardware announced itis closing. This is the first major closing since the opening of two major home hardware retail stores in Willmar.
The popular hardware and sporting goods retailer was closed Monday and posted "Going out of business" signs across its front windows. The store, at First Street South since 1978, was opened Tuesday morning for the start of the liquidation sale.
Current store owners -- John Holm, Roger Holm, Randy Klein and Kornell Erickson -- have declined to discuss their business until next week. In July, Holm Brothers had run advertisements in the West Central Tribune promoting a storewide sale to reduce inventory.
While customers flocked to Holm Brothers Tuesday, other customers Monday lamented the possible loss of the store. Regular customers who enjoyed shopping at Holm Brothers wondered where they will shop next.
As major retail box stores move into west central Minnesota, they bring increased competition to local business. It is never easy for local retailers to remain competitive, especially with major retailers' buying power bringing low-price advantages.
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More local retailers in the region will face similar competition as the major discount retailer Wal-Mart looks at opening Super Wal-Marts in Willmar, Litchfield and Montevideo.
The new big boxes bringing competition for local retailers also bring additional options for consumers. That is called free enterprise, which is the foundation of America.
However, when a community loses a unique and long-term business like Holm Brothers in Willmar, it somehow feels like we're losing something that is irreplaceable. It is something to think about.
