Bennett's out but not gone

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 646, 23 July 1996, Page 12

Bennett's out but not gone

The Waimarino will be without a furniture retailer after this week, but will still be served from Taihape. Bennett's Furnishers proprietor Chris Bennett said following the closure of their store in Raetihi on Friday, he will continue to serve the area'at least three days a week from his van, based at the family's Taihape store, "or at a phone call's notice". "Due to the current economic climate we are unable to continue to keep our Raetihi shop open." Bennett's will continue to offer free delivery of furniture and free measure and quote on carpets, vinyls and curtains. "Current account holders are more than welcome to continue that relationship through our Taihape shop," said Chris. r He said he wanted to thank the many

customers who have been loyal supporters over the years. "We hope to continue to serve you well," He stressed that it was with deep regret that they have been forced to close the Raetihi shop. They are a Raetihi born-and-bred family with continuing strong ties with the town. "We've tried very hard over the past few years to keep the shop going. To „ operate a shop you need foot traffic — that just hasn't happened." He said the mountain erupting was a contributing factor, although he wouldn't blame it entirely. "We haven't had the extra trade from the ski businesses, at the end of last year and this year. It's taken the cream out of the business." He said the downturn in farming had been a factor long-term. - •*