Photo Credit: Guelph Mercury

Yesterday I received a quick note in my inbox from Duncan-McPhee describing a sale that starts today. Normally, I just file the info but this note said much more than that. It told me it was the end of an era.

Like many Guelph residents and afficionados of our gorgeous downtown, this is a shock and brings great sadness at the closing of this institution that commands the corner of Quebec and Norfolk Streets. For decades, Duncan McPhee has been the place to go for hand-picked gifts, collectibles and the latest design trends. All this from a classic limestone building that has become synonymous with downtown Guelph.

Duncan McPhee has been an anchor and an institution in Guelph since 1947, and guided by the discerning hands of the Mezenberg family for 34 years. With sophistication and style, their lovely storefront of mullioned windows have showcased the finest gifts for generations of gift-givers. Through Duncan-McPhee, The Mezenbergs have shown us how to put our best foot forward and take pride in our downtown.

Duncan-McPhee has received several awards over the years including Canadian Giftware Retailer of the Year, Better Business Bureau’s Integrity Award, Guelph’s 175 Anniversary Award and the City of Guelph Business Award for their long standing service excellence to business and the community.

Sadly, they are a victim of the times as more and more take their shopping dollars to dollar stores, box stores, chain stores and online retailers. We’ll miss the personal touch, the instant recognition when you walk in the door and the caliber of the collections you offered for our viewing and gifting pleasure.

Jennifer Mezenberg, you and your family have created many fond memories for those who have given and received the gifts of Duncan McPhee. I wish you well.