THE drought has claimed another Leeton business, although it is not only climatic conditions that have contributed to the closure of MPS – The Multipurpose Store.

While the harsh economic conditions brought on by the continued dry has played it part in the award-winning business ceasing to trade on Friday, uncompromising overheads also figured highly in owners Donna and Peter Randolph opting to close.

Mrs Randolph said staff have been open about the future of the business, even providing a “diplomatically worded” letter for inquiring customers.

She said the downturn due to drought has hit hard in the last four years, but the end of the lease on their current building brought the business’s future to a head.

“It came down to zoning issues to relocate,” Mrs Randolph said. “The size required was an issue, we just couldn’t relocate.

“We spent seven or eight months looking for other sites, but there was nothing suitable or available. The end of the lease was nearing and this was the only option.”

She believes in better times all hardware retailers could have survived with their market share in Leeton, but the conditions and overheads of requiring a large premises proved too much.

“I am extremely disappointed,” Mrs Randolph said. “The business was very streamlined and we had exceptional staff with their great customer service.

“I think landlords overall may not have a full understanding of the effects of the drought on some businesses.”

At its height, MPS – The Multipurpose Store provided the equivalent of nine full-time jobs and won the 2004 NSW Hardware Industry Awards store of the year (for its size).

One ray of light from the closure is the retention of parts of the business in the Leeton community.

The paint section and the Thirftylink banner will move to Leeton Steel Retail and the toy section has relocated to the main street, with expanded lines. The garden centre will not continue.

In all, their three remaining staff members will maintain employment, which was important to the Randolphs.

“I would like to thank Leeton residents for their support in helping us move a lot of stock since we announced we were closing, and for their expressions of disappointment that we are closing,” Mrs Randolph said.

“I would encourage residents to support their local businesses so they can continue to survive and Leeton businesses need to be proactive.”