RUMFORD, Maine — On Wednesday, Marden's announced the closure of its Rumford location, citing "ongoing serious facility safety issues with the landlord."
The Maine-based surplus and salvage store said its decision came after "exhausting all efforts" to resolve the issue, according to a Facebook post made on Wednesday.
The store is officially closed as of Wednesday.
"This was an extremely difficult decision, however, the safety of our employees and customers is our #1 concern. In our nearly 60 years, we have never closed a store," the post stated. "While 2022 was a very successful year company-wide, our hands were tied by the landlord’s inaction to deal with ongoing, major safety concerns. We would welcome the opportunity to return to the Rumford area in the future if a suitable retail location can be found."
Affected employees will reportedly either be moved to a different location or offered a separation package based on their years of service.
The Rumford location's closure marks Marden's first shutdown after nearly 60 years in business, according to the post.
Marden's will reportedly be honoring full item returns at the 13 other locations in Maine for 60 days, with a receipt.
“It’s really big news and really unfortunate and our primary concern right now is the needs of our residents and the employees of the store," Rumford's Economic Development Director George O'Keefe said Thursday.
O'Keefe met with reporters in front of the store and said, "we really, really love Marden's."
"And for us, it’s really hard to think Rumford without [Marden's]," O'Keefe said. "We’re going to try to find a way to help them stay.”
He added the store was a major retail employer in town and served countless residents and acted as a community space.
O'Keefe acknowledged the years of deferred maintenance at the Marden's building that led to this closure announcement. He said the building has substantial leaks and town officials are working with the landlord to find solutions.
The landlord of the Marden's building also owns the other buildings in the plaza.
"We are not giving up. We will never give up on Marden’s no matter what. Whether they’re here or not here at this specific address, we will not give up on Marden’s, and they know it, and we appreciate them," O'Keefe added,