A family-owned auto parts and machine works business that began here in 1913 has left the city.Founder Nick Thul was on the verge of moving to Nova Scotia for another business opportunity when he discovered a need he could fill right here, according to a history of the company. Click here to read the story.
The business will continue in other locations. Its sites on Roosevelt Avenue and East Third Street were threatened in 2006 by a developer's plans for 352 condos in five new buildings. Click here for Plaintalker's report. In 2008, the ambitious development plan was dropped. Read about it here.
Plaintalker did not want to pester the family on a holiday, but did verify a news tip on the firm's departure by checking the block where the business was based.
Another nearly century-old family business, Cozzoli Machine Company, was on the same block before moving to Somerset several years ago and its location had been slated to be part of the development site, as was property owned by the PMUA.
Thanks to the Thul family for being city employers and a landmark business destination for so many years and best wishes for ongoing success.
--Bernice Paglia
A fine, honest and complete business if there ever was one. What a shame when you think at one time there was What's Yr Beef, Macy's and Roger's Clothing all on that road. Maybe they didn't get the memo that there is a Truce in town?
ReplyDeleteThey also had/have stores in Bound Brook (also closing) and Somerville (status unknown.) Everyone who sells auto parts is struggling to keep the lights on.... Internet warehouse sales and easy price comparisons have pretty much killed the parts resale business......it's tough to compete when you have a physical store and your competition just has a warehouse and Internet connection. I buy parts from a very small local store and happily pay a bit more so he'll be there for me tomorrow.
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