(Australia-NewsWire.Com, November 13, 2012 ) NSW, Australia -- Fashion changed, but Robert’s Mens Shop in New Philadelphia did not, that is until now. Robert’s Mens Shop, after thriving for over four-decades at the same downtown location will be closing at the end of the year.
Owner of Robert’s, Mike Ley, is retiring and the High Avenue store will ultimately be close by Christmas. The location is closed until Wednesday in preparation for the liquidation sale that will sell the rest of shop’s inventory, fixtures and all.
Mike Ley opened the store with his wife Jackie in early 1973. Mike’s father, the ‘Robert’ in Robert’s, had founded earlier Robert’s stores in Marietta in 1950. Mike and his brothers, Bob and John, expanded the Robert’s name into over a dozen Ohio stores. While three other Robert’s store remain in town today, Robert’s Medical Uniforms, Robert’s Embroidery & Screenprinting, and Robert’s Tuxedos are relocating to Dover, though they will not close.
The 62-year old Mike Ley seems to have few regrets. “It’s been an amazing run,” he said. The Atwood Lake resident added, “I felt it was the right time to retire.”
Robert’s Mens Shop will surely be missed. The store was named the 2005 Small Business of the Year by the Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce and is consider by many downtown resident to be a fixture of the neighborhood.
Ley served a number of leadership positions in the NPBCA, including president, and is well regarded within its ranks. Diane Lautenschleger, administrative director of the NPBCA, commended the long-standing business’s owner:
“He’s been a great friend and wonderful business associate. Mike’s leadership extended beyond his responsibilities with the NPBCA. He was a mentor for new businesses and shared his extensive knowledge from 40 years in business with others who asked for his advice. He’s a very wise businessman, and passionate about entrepreneurism and small business. He’s to be commended for his help,” Lautenschleger said. She added, “He’s definitely leaving big shoes to fill.”
Ley will remain a member of the NPBCA board.
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