Ben's Antiques & Market, a local business in Douglasville that operated for over a decade, has closed its doors, leaving vendors facing unpaid dues. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, vendors are seeking payment for sales proceeds that remain unpaid, with some checks already bouncing. Stained glass artist John Eachus, for example, has only recovered $280 of the more than $1,000 he is owed.
Ben Haverty, the owner of the now-closed market, explained that financial troubles began when the landlord reduced part of the leased space, causing the business to become unprofitable. He has promised to fully repay all vendors by the end of April. "The contract states that Mr. Haverty will provide us counter service, sales," Eachus said, referring to the terms that entitle vendors to 90% of the proceeds every two weeks, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.
Vendors have shared stories of the financial hardship caused by the closure. Patricia Almond, a vendor selling custom furniture, emphasized that her missing earnings are crucial for maintaining her household. Vendors had until Monday to vacate the premises, and many are awaiting final commission checks and rent refunds, as reported by WSB-TV.
Haverty has expressed his intention to use his personal funds to ensure the final payments to vendors. "In 10 years, we have never missed paying a dealer their commission checks, and we do not plan to now. Going out of business is painful and slow," Haverty said, according to WSB-TV. Vendor Ann Maria Chin, however, criticized the delay, stressing the importance of fulfilling agreements and providing prompt payment.
