PH’s oldest appliance retailer Automatic Centre to permanently close shop in October

Automatic Centre is closing its doors permanently on October 10, as the pandemic continues to pose long-term economic damages to businesses.

Automatic Centre president and chief executive officer Geoffrey Lim announced it in a letter to business partners today, September 8.

“We would like to announce today that Automatic Appliances Inc. (AAI) will officially close down its appliance retailing operations effective October 10, 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused tremendous challenges on our business and it is with much regret and trepidation that we share this news with you today,” Lim said.

Automatic Centre was founded by Benito Lim in 1984 as the first appliance retailer in the country. Its first branch, which Lim built in Avenida Rizal, sold light bulbs, wires, sockets, and other electrical supplies to visitors of Manila’s main shopping street post-war.

Since then, the company has expanded its operations to around 20 stores in Metro Manila. It is the oldest appliance and electronics retail store chain in the country, with experience spanning over 70 years.

“In line with keeping the brand’s legacy alive, we will continue to seek out outside parties that may be interested in using/adopting the Automatic Centre brand name moving forward,” Lim added.

Lim also assured partners that the company will honor obligations and intends to “work closely” with them to ensure a smooth transition and closing process.

The post PH’s oldest appliance retailer Automatic Centre to permanently close shop in October appeared first on Speed Magazine.

Source: Speed Magazine PH