Covid a major factor in New London store’s closure
By John Faucher
New London’s Family Video store will permanently close its doors on Saturday, Oct. 10.
Family Video opened its 7,500 square foot New London location on Sept. 19, 2002. The movie and video game rental business is located at 406 Wolf River Plaza.
Family Video District Manager Doug Seefeldt said in an interview Monday, Sept. 21, that COVID-19 had a “direct impact” on the decision to close the store.
“Realistically, pre-covid we were doing fine,” said Seefeldt.
“I mean business wasn’t like what it was 10 years ago, but the New London store was busy enough. Honestly, right before the closure we were busier than we had been in quite some time,” he said.
In March the store closed for nearly two months due to COVID-19.
According to Seefeldt, things just haven’t bounced back.
Movie industry impacted
“I honestly feel like it’s not just us. The theaters closed as well,” said Seefeldt.
“We’re not getting those big movies to the box office and that has a lot to do with it. I think that’s a major player there, we’re not getting the movies.
Other store locations will close in Ironwood, Michigan, and Sturgeon Bay.
Seefeldt said the Waupaca store will remain open.
Employees
Currently the store employs four people.
Seefeldt said those numbers were higher pre-covid.
“Of the four remaining, one employee will transfer and help at our store in Waupaca, one has already found another job and unfortunately two will be displaced,” said Seefeldt.
“They’re definitely great employees and they’re not going to struggle finding a job. I know that,” he said.
The store’s last day will be Oct. 10.
“Everything inside the building will be sold,” said Seefeldt.
Movies and games are available for sale at discount prices and store racks and shelving will be available for free.
“It’s kind of bitter sweet. I’ve worked with Family Video for almost 20 years. We’re seeing some patrons and families coming in looking for items for their basements and recreation rooms. So it’s kind of cool seeing some of it going to live on and make people happy,” he said.
Property for lease or sale
Family Video/Legacy Properties owns the building and plans to lease or sell it.
Seefeldt said there is an additional 3,000 square feet of space available besides the video store portion of the building.
“My goal is to get someone in there as soon as possible,” he said.
“You never want to see empty spaces. You want to keep the town thriving.”
Anyone interested in the property can contact Doug Seefeldt at 715-218-2738.