Orchard Supply Hardware Store Closing Sales Start In California

CALIFORNIA — Store closing sales have started one day after Lowe's abruptly announced that it will permanently close all Orchard Supply Hardware stores in California, Oregon and Florida. Signs advertising the sale were spotted in store windows and online early Thursday morning.

Customers across the state expressed their dismay at the news of the closures and several vowed to boycott Lowe’s. Several of the OSH stores had recently opened in California.

The company said Wednesday that they intend to shutter all 99 stores nationwide by the end of the year. A Lowe’s spokesperson said they plan to help employees during the transition.

"We will be retaining our associates through the store closure process and are encouraging them to apply for open roles at Lowe's stores, where they will receive priority status," an OSH spokesperson told Patch. "Associates will receive job placement assistance, and we will be providing eligibility for severance."

North Carolina-based Lowe's purchased the small hardware chain in 2013. The San Jose-based hardware store chain was founded in 1931. Click here to find your nearest OSH location. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

Photo courtesy Autumn Johnson/ Patch