Calgary

Calgary antique store closing doors after 32 years

After 32 years, cornerstone business Junktiques in Inglewood is closing its doors.

'It was time,' says longtime store owner David Kaufman

David Kaufman says he is looking forward to retirement and giving back to the community after more than 30 years owning an antique store in Inglewood. (Colleen Underwood/CBC)

For 32 years, Junktiques has been a cornerstone business in Calgary's trendy Inglewood neighbourhood, but now its owners have decided it's time to lock the doors for good.

David and Marie Kaufman first opened the antique store in 1983 where Recordland is currently located. They later moved to another spot along 9th Avenue S.E. 

The couple often sold antique furniture they either refurbished or picked up while travelling the world.

"We're very happy the business closed. It went out on our terms and I think that's the most important thing," said David Kaufman. 

He said it feels good to be retiring while the business was still doing well. The building has been recently sold to new owners.

"We weren't kind of given the bum's rush out the door. We just thought that we'd close the store because it was time and then the offer came in out of nowhere."

It's unclear what will take its place.

The 9th Avenue bridge connecting Inglewood to downtown Calgary. (Stephanie Wiebe/CBC)

Kaufman says he and his wife decided to retire so they could travel and take in more concerts and events around town.

They also want to give back to the community that has supported them for so many years.

"So now it's time for us to put some time back into the community. So, whether it's driving people where they have to get to or volunteering my time, I figure it's only reasonable that I can start doing some of that. I've got the luxury to do that."

Their last day in the store will be March 31.