The toy store that inspired the hit Pixar film Toy Story is set to close after over 70 years.
Jeffrey’s Toys in Kearny Street, San Francisco, has announced it will be shutting, citing inflation and a rise in crime in the downtown area.
A spokesperson for the shop announced on Friday that it will be closing permanently at the end of February.
One of the co-owners of the store, which dates back to 1938, had warned that the business was in danger last month, saying its future was dependent on help from the city.
The downtown San Francisco store is set to close
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The business' attorney, Ken Sterling, told The San Francisco Chronicle: "The store has been struggling for a number of years, due to the perils and violence of the downtown environment, inflation, the decrease in consumer spending and the demise of retail across the world."
A spokesperson from the shop also indicated its demise in a Facebook post announcing a store closing sale earlier this week.
A post on the page's social media said: "It’s that time… All things must GO. As we make our way to the Finish Line (in a couple weeks) we want to Thank ALL of you wonderful people who’ve been a part of Jefferey's Family...It’s been fun."
The post also advertised "30% off" on "All Full Price Items."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The shop dates back to the 1930s
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The business was first founded in 1938 as Birdie’s Variety Store. It has belonged to the Luhn family for four generations now. After pivoting to selling toys in the 1950s, the business had opened seven stores around the Bay Area.
However, the current storefront in the city’s Financial District has been the last one for several years now.
Current owner Rosie Luhn told the San Francisco Business Times: "We're heartbroken. We held on until we can't anymore.
"Everyone left the city. San Francisco always comes back but it will probably take another three years."
The owners of the shop said they were struggling due to inflation and the crime in the area
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Last month, Jeffrey’s Toys co-owner Greg Luhn has said the store was struggling and was relying on a positive festive period for sales.
He told an NBC Affiliate: "We’re one of the oldest family-run stores in the city, but all of them are slowly disappearing.
"I hope things will change, but I know that we just can’t keep covering the loss every month without help from the city."
GB News has approached the Mayor of San Francisco for a comment.
