A Harrowing Thought: A Long Island Shopping “Tradition” Comes To An End

If you’re one of us then it’s likely that since you were a kid, shopping at Harrows for Christmas stuff in the winter and pool and patio stuff in the summer has become almost a family tradition. But, like all good things, it seems this too must come to an end.

Harrow Stores Inc. after 80 years in business has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and plans on starting its liquidation sales as early as this week.

The company, owner and operator of the 10-store Harrow’s pool, outdoor and Christmas products retail outlets listed assets of $5.3 million and debts of 11.2 million, and an inventory of $3.6 milling. According to officials, the retailer noted for being the regions largest wholesaler of above-ground pools, spas, grills and outdoor furnishings, is said to have taken a hit after two area competitors, Poseidon Pools and Treasure Island Inc, closed their doors with the past year. They note that liquidation sales by these rival companies significantly reduced market prices and impacted Harrow’s profits.

Officials further report that in addition to the closing and discount retailers tapping into he Harrow’s pool and Christmas-products markets, the repercussions have become evident and taken their toll within the last two years.

Harrow Stores Inc. stated that those who purchased their supplies for competitors were no longer in the market for the products they have to offer. Aldo, with other retailers such as Lowe’s and Home Depot also tapping into the pool supply and holiday supply market, business has substantially decreased.

While employees noted they were shocked and “shattered” by the news, consumers noted, they could see it coming as they noticed a decline in both sales help and selection, signaling something was “wrong”.

Harrow’s owns and operates eight stores here on Long Island and two in New Jersey with it’s newest addition to the Riverhead outlet just a year age.