A longtime hardware store in Arlington’s Westover neighborhood is preparing to close after nearly 50 years in business. The store will close after its lease expires on July 31.
Ayer’s Hardware to Close Longtime Westover Store
Ayers Variety & Hardware Store is preparing for its final goodbye to the community. Owners Kristy and Keith Peterkin announced the closure in a Facebook post. The store, located at 5853 Washington Boulevard in Arlington, VA, will mark the end of its journey by the end of this month.
The owners posted, “It is with heavy hearts we announce after 49 years of our family owning Ayers Variety and Hardware, we have decided to close the business. Our lease ends July 31 and our doors will close for the last time in a few weeks. For the past year we have tried to find someone to take over the business and were in negotiations until the end of June, but just couldn’t find anyone who could commit the money and time it takes to operate a business of this breadth that only closes 4 days a year.”
The owners thanked customers for supporting the business throughout the years. “Westover really is a special place, and we will miss what it has meant to us,” said the owners.
About the Hardware Store
In 1977, the Kaplan family purchased Ayers Variety & Hardware from the Ayers estate. The retail hardware store was founded in 1948 by World War II veteran John W. Ayers. After Ayers passed away in 1976, the legacy of the store was continued by the Kaplan family.
The store has a strong following in the community, built on trust and commitment to service. From hardware supplies and toys to lawn decorations and household essentials to fishing gear, the store provides all of it in one place.
With the closure of Ayers Variety & Hardware, the Washington community will not only be losing a cherished hardware store but also a landmark.
