June 18, 2010
The Cornerstone going out of business
The Cornerstone Catholic Books and Gifts, serving the Evansville and Owensboro Catholic communities since 1983, will go out of business later this summer, according to a news release from the store owner. All merchandise and fixtures will be liquidated in a “going out of business sale” beginning immediately.
“Economic conditions and other factors have made it very difficult to operate profitably the past few years,” said Anne Simms, owner. “It’s with a heavy heart we have made this decision. The store has been our ministry since we purchased it in 1993. We have made many friends over the years and helped many people on their spiritual journey.”
Parishes were to be notified of the decision. Annual publications normally ordered through the Cornerstone will need to be placed directly through publishers or others.
Merchandise in the store has been marked down 30 to 50 percent.
Everything will be sold by the end of August. No special items will be ordered.
Kimberly Marsh, store manager, said, “The Internet and big box stores have offered books at prices not sustainable for a small retailer. Although gifts and some books are unique to our niche customer, sales volume has not kept up with the costs of doing business.”
Simms said, “Employees of the Cornerstone over the years have done a wonderful job serving our customers, in the store, at book tables, and many other ways, and we are very grateful for their dedication.”
She added, “It has been their ministry too in many ways. We thank God for them and our many loyal customers. We pray he will continue to bless them.”
The Cornerstone Catholic Books and Gifts is located at 4671 Bayard Park Drive in Evansville.