After a run spanning four decades, Acme Surplus, a staple of the Northampton retail scene, will be shuttering its doors in early January, as confirmed by the store owners in a statement on Sunday. The family-owned business which has offered discounted merchandise since its opening, expressed gratitude to customers, "Thank you for shopping with us over the years!"

The closure of the downtown surplus store, positioned in Thornes Marketplace, will mark the end of an era that began in 1980. The store, known for a range of discounted items from health and beauty aids, to hardware and housewares, will close at 5 p.m. on January 7. Despite its longevity, the store's future was uncertain following the passing of the longtime owner, Mark Rosenzweig in July, his life and contributions were detailed in an obituary published by the Daily Hampshire Gazette.

Rosenzweig had cut his teeth in the surplus business working with his uncles at farmer's markets in Pennsylvania. He eventually saw an opportunity for such a venture in the Pioneer Valley. It was then, that his entrepreneurial genes kicked in and he opened Acme Surplus at the Hampshire Mall in Hadley.

Known for his "love of the hunt for unusual and useful merchandise", Rosenzweig made a name for himself and his store. His interactions with suppliers and customers, filled with lively banter were "one of his great joys", according to his obituary.

 The business was a family affair and proudly proclaimed this on its website, stating to be family-owned since 1980, offering "the best prices in discount merchandise," as seen on store's website.