After 20 Years, The Purple Bear Toy Store In Guilford Is Closing

GUILFORD, CT — In its store-closing announcement, the toy store on the Guilford Green, The Purple Bear, gracefully notes that while the shop will be gone soon, the memories it has created over two decades will live on.

"With enormous thanks to our customers and friends over the past 20 years, we have decided to retire and close The Purple Bear," the announcement reads. "While the store will be here no longer, memories of the generations of smiles from children, parents, grandparents and others, whom we have welcomed over the years, will remain in our hearts."

In a social media post where many customers are sharing both their sadness, and congratulations on the retirement, most are sharing memories.

"This makes me so sad!! Your store opened when my kids were little, and I always imagined I’d be giving my grandchildren gifts wrapped in your famous white paper with the purple bear seal. You are an anchor on The Green and have made so many children and their parents happy for so many years. Wishing you much luck and happiness on whatever comes next for your family. Thank you for many, many years of great gift giving and memories! You will be missed."

"We shall miss our numerous friends and supporters throughout Connecticut and many states and countries throughout the world, the post reads. We sincerely THANK YOU and hope that you all continue to seek out fun through creative toys!"

And, in appreciation of its "loyal customers" the shop has a 30 percent off everything sale underway. They also advise that "anyone with gift cards and store credits are encouraged to come in and use them soon."