ASSINIBOIA — When online stories started to emerge about Peavey Mart closing stores in Eastern Canada, shoppers across Saskatchewan wondered if this could affect their favourite locations. Social media rumours circulated citing other stores were closing across the prairies, but no confirmation of this decision was made or learned, until Jan. 27.
Assiniboia was one community that expressed their concerns and questions to Facebook, through an Assiniboia community page, asking if anyone had any definitive answers on their store’s situation.
The store’s origins are from the 1960s but Assiniboia’s Peavey Mart location has been part of the community for more than 50 years. It will be closed, as one of 12 Saskatchewan locations, leaving holes in their community’s business sector.
Residents describe this location as “their store,” and had “everything you needed, when you needed it.” Peavey Mart carried a hardware, Ag supplies, home improvement products and many more items.
On behalf of the Assiniboia Times, I called the Assiniboia Peavey Mart location the morning of Jan. 27, but staff were unable to give any responses and directed me to an email address that may be able to answer questions for a story on this location.
SaskToday.ca carried several stories Jan. 27 and 28 on what appears to be imminent news of Sask. stores’ closures. Upon closing, Peavey Mart calls on customers to shop local - SaskToday.ca Peavey Mart obtains creditor protection, confirms nationwide closures - SaskToday.ca.
Peavey Mart put out a long Facebook post on Jan. 27 stating that all remaining locations across Canada will be closed.
Several news resources cited, “The Canadian retail environment has faced significant disruption over recent years, and Peavey has not been immune to these challenges,” said Doug Anderson, president and CEO of Peavey Industries LP in a press release.
“We recognize that difficult decisions like these are necessary to create a more stable foundation for the long-term success of our business.”
Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Red Deer, Alta., the retailer is known for its commitment to rural communities.
Many Assiniboia residents included their loyalty and appreciation for this business in their community and their concern for the town’s future and sadness at the prospect of such a well-known beneficial business leaving their community after so many years in operation. Residents have also stated their concern for the store’s employees.
In response to a request from the Assiniboia Times, Mayor Sharon Schauenberg said, “The announcement of the closing of Peavey Mart significantly affects not only Assiniboia but also the surrounding area, impacting our local economy. This business is more than just an establishment; it actively supports the community through donations and participation in local events and facilities. Our community's strength is closely tied to its business sector; while we view this as a huge loss, we are certain that our strong business sector will be supported within our long-standing businesses. We are reminded of the importance of shopping locally. “
Assiniboia’s mayor also added, “When we discuss a business shutting down, we often say, ‘It's not personal, it's just business.’ However, in small rural towns, it feels very personal. The employees are our neighbours and friends. Our hearts go out to them while they work through this transition."
In Saskatoon, the 51st Street Peavey Mart was erecting large “Store Closing” signs while Assiniboia residents noticed “All Sales Final” signage at their location.
Jan. 29, Peavey Mart made another social media post stating,” Following our recent official announcement, all Peavey Mart locations are in liquidation …. current liquidation discounts are up to 30 per cent off, with few exceptions and all sales are final.” They also urged consideration for the staff during this difficult time.
