Appleton-based specialty toy retailer the Learning Shop will soon close its doors after 40 years.
The business’ five locations, in Appleton, Brookfield, Madison, Mequon and Greendale, will shutter at year’s end. It sells children’s toys and educational products for parents and teachers.
Second-generation owners and brothers Todd and Tom Merryfield announced the closure late Friday via social media, saying they had “agonized over this decision for the past several years.”
“We have taken many steps throughout all operational area to minimize costs, but even with all those cost savings measures we found that the annual and continual losses in sales were outpacing our efforts on the other side of the ledger,” according to the letter addressed to Learning Shop customers, fan and supporters.
Neither of the Merryfields were immediately available for additional comment.
Todd and Tom joined the business in 1987 and 1993, respectively, eventually taking over for their parents, Dan and Sharon Merryfield, who had purchased the Learning Shop in 1979 as struggling teacher supply store, according to its website.
During its final weeks of operations, The Learning Shop will offer various discounts and promotions. Shoppers were reminded to use gift cards and redeem loyalty points.
