Molbak's Garden + Home, a cherished family-owned garden center and notable competitor of Home Depot, has announced its closure shortly after the holiday season.
Nestled in Woodinville, Washington, roughly 30 minutes northeast of Seattle, this beloved establishment occupies an expansive 19-acre site. Since its inception in 1956, Molbak's has been a key destination for gardening enthusiasts in Puget Sound.
Molbak's Garden + Home Announces Closure Following Failed Development Deal
Regrettably, the decision to close the doors of Molbak's Garden + Home was made following the collapse of a crucial development deal in late 2023. The unfortunate events led to an announcement in mid-December about the store's impending permanent shutdown.
January 28 has been marked as the final day of operation for Molbak's, with closing sales slated to begin on the preceding Friday.
This closure marks the end of a significant chapter in Washington State's retail and gardening community, bringing nearly seven decades of service and commitment to garden lovers in the region to a close.
Julie Kouhia, CEO of Molbak's Home + Garden, disclosed that the store's plans to remain in its current location fell through following unsuccessful mediation with Green Partners, LLC.
The talks concluded last week and aimed to resolve a dispute over a redevelopment project known as "The Gardens District." This project began in 2008 and was envisioned to revitalize the community with Molbak's intended as its central feature.
However, in a recent turn of events, the business was informed that it would no longer be part of the redevelopment plans, significantly impacting the future of this iconic local business.
Kouhia emphasized in a conversation with The Seattle Times the importance of closing the business with dignity and respect. Over the coming weeks, the focus will be on ensuring that the shutdown honors the store's employees, suppliers, and loyal customers.
Additionally, Kouhia expressed a desire to celebrate the rich history, significant impact, and happiness that Molbak's has brought to its community throughout its years of operation.
Earlier this month, Green Partners, the real estate company involved with Molbak's Garden + Home, mentioned that the store still had several years left.
However, on Monday, Molbak's did not clarify why they would not continue to operate for the remaining lease period. In a recent statement, the company announced that it has agreed not to publicly disclose details about its lease.
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Molbak's Closure Shocks Woodinville Community
Molbak's Garden + Home, founded by Danish immigrants Egon and Laina Molbak 67 years ago, employs 70 full-time, 45 part-time, and seasonal workers and several suppliers. Kouhia mourned Molbak's closure's impact on staff, customers, vendors, and the Northwest community, who loved it.
Unfortunately, the Woodinville City Council's mediation between Molbak's and Green Partners failed to revive the project. Mayor Mike Millman said the loss of Molbak's shook the city and area and made him "sick to his stomach."
Woodinville's wine business, particularly Chateau Ste. Michelle and Molbak attract people from far and wide. Although the city suggested other locations, Kouhia said transferring Molbak's would be lengthy and complicated.
The Molbak family, including founder Egon Molbak and current owner Jens Molbak, called the situation heartbreaking and acknowledged the hardship it causes their employees, families, and the community that has supported Molbak's for decades.
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