Sunday will mark the last day for Pet Hampton & Aquarium in Wainscott, according to the owner Erika Hegyesi.
Last week, Hegysei announced the store closing was imminent, as she could no longer afford her rent and she was brought to court. However, Hegysei wasn't sure exactly how much time she had left in the space the store has inhabited for the past 22 years.
"I can't thank everyone enough for their support," said Hegysei, who said she was extremely touched by those who expressed that she and her store would be a missed part of the East Hampton business community.
However, the store's remaining time has run out, but Hegysei said she still has plenty of merchandise left to sell. There's still 5-pound bags of dog and cat foods, lots of cans of food and other heavier items that she was hoping to unload before she needs vacate. Customers will find 40-percent off of all foods on Sunday.
The store will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Most of the pets have found new homes.
Asked what else customers can find in the store on its last day, Hegysei said, "There's still plenty of substrate for reptiles and CareFresh bedding in all colors for the small animals — all 50 percent off. Sixty percent off dog and cat carriers, plug-in desktop aquariums and all aquarium ornaments. Good selection of used tanks. Cheap 180-gallon with stand — $500."
Hegysei said she was not able to afford the $8,000 a month rent for the approximately 5,000-square-foot space. The down economy impacted sales over the past few years, she said, adding that many customers turned to chain stores and online stores for their pets' needs.
"I would like to thank my employees both past and present, without whom none of this would have been possible," she said. "They worked hard and took care of the animals and the store. In the last week, I have realized how much we really mean to everyone, and how much everybody really needs us."
She is exploring the possibility of opening up again elsewhere on the South Fork.
Will you visit Pet Hampton & Aquarium on its last day? Tell us in the comments below.
