After a remarkable 103 years serving its community, Sherman's Sports and Army Store, a cherished family-owned business, is closing its doors, leaving a void in the hearts of Hendersonville, North Carolina residents. The store's legacy extends far beyond mere commerce; it's a testament to the enduring power of local businesses and their profound impact on the communities they serve.

Established in 1922 as a general store, Sherman's evolved over the decades into a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and gift-seekers alike. Generations of families have relied on Sherman's for everything from camping gear and fishing tackle to comfortable apparel and durable footwear. The store also served as a go-to spot for unique souvenirs and locally-themed gifts, solidifying its place as a true community hub.

The decision to close the store came after much contemplation by current owners Becky and Rex Sherman, who represent the latest generation of the Sherman family to steward the business. One day, the couple was at home trying to recall the name of a specific item they sold. The struggle to remember sparked a realization that the time had come to embrace a new chapter in their lives.

"We started giggling. We said, 'You know, this isn't going to get any better,'" Rex Sherman shared in an interview. This moment of shared amusement and clarity ultimately led to the difficult decision to close the store, a decision made easier by the allure of long-awaited home projects and travel adventures.

Becky Sherman's grandfather, Louis Sherman, founded the store over a century ago, and the business has remained a family affair ever since. The weight of that legacy, combined with the desire for a well-deserved retirement, contributed to the Shermans' decision to close the shop.

Currently, Sherman's is in the midst of a going-out-of-business sale, offering a 25% discount on all merchandise. The sale has drawn crowds of loyal customers eager to snag a piece of Sherman's history and bid farewell to a beloved institution.

In an era dominated by online retailers and large corporations, the closure of a local, family-owned business like Sherman's hits particularly hard. These establishments often serve as cornerstones of their communities, providing personalized service, fostering local connections, and contributing to the unique character of their towns.

The news of Sherman's impending closure spread quickly through the Hendersonville community, primarily through word-of-mouth and a community page dedicated to downtown Hendersonville. Without a website or social media presence of its own, Sherman's relied on its reputation and the loyalty of its customers to keep the community informed.

"After 103 years, Sherman's Sports & Army is saying goodbye as the family owners retire. Everything is 25% off, so grab something special and take a moment to thank this downtown icon for over a century of memories," the community page shared, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt responses from local residents.

The comments section was flooded with messages expressing gratitude, sadness, and fond memories of Sherman's. One commenter lamented, "I wish they could find someone to keep it going while they enjoy retirement! It's a Main Street institution." This sentiment reflects the deep connection many residents feel to the store and their desire to see its legacy continue.

Another customer eloquently captured the essence of Sherman's importance to the community, stating, "Sherman's reminds us that business isn't just about transactions – it's about relationships, history, and a deep commitment to the people who call Hendersonville home. Sherman's is more than just a store. It's a piece of who we are."

Sherman's closure coincides with a broader trend of brick-and-mortar store closures across the United States. While Sherman's story is unique, it highlights the challenges faced by many small businesses in an increasingly competitive retail landscape. In contrast to local institutions like Sherman's, large sporting goods brands are making major moves, such as Dick's Sporting Goods' recent acquisition of Moosejaw and its brands for a staggering $2.4 billion.

Experts predict that as many as 45,000 brick-and-mortar stores could close in the next five years, reflecting the ongoing shift towards online shopping and the evolving demands of consumers. Several major retailers have already announced store closures or filed for bankruptcy in recent years, signaling a significant transformation in the retail industry.

In 2023, Foot Locker revealed plans to shutter up to 400 outlets by 2026, while other well-known retailers like Tuesday Morning and Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams filed for bankruptcy. Bed Bath & Beyond has completely closed its brick-and-mortar stores and now operates exclusively online, demonstrating the dramatic changes sweeping through the retail sector.

The UBS report suggests that clothing, consumer electronics, sporting goods, hobby, book, music, and home furnishing stores have been particularly affected by this trend since 2019. However, the report also identifies retailers like Walmart, Costco, Home Depot, and Target as potential winners in the evolving retail landscape, suggesting that larger, more diversified businesses may be better positioned to adapt and thrive.

Dick's Sporting Goods, in acquiring Moosejaw, plans to maintain the operation of Moosejaw and its associated brands, including Champs Sports, under their existing names. However, Dick's also intends to proceed with Foot Locker's plan to close approximately 400 Foot Locker stores and 125 Champs Sports stores by the end of 2026, further illustrating the ongoing consolidation and restructuring within the retail industry.

Former CEO Mary Dillon noted that Foot Locker had already closed over 20% of its global doors since 2019, including the exit of non-core banners and the conversion of select international markets. This strategic streamlining reflects the company's efforts to optimize its store portfolio and focus on more profitable locations.

Many of the Foot Locker and Champs Sports closures involve underperforming stores in B and C-tier shopping malls, highlighting the challenges faced by retailers in less desirable locations. As consumer preferences shift and online shopping continues to grow, retailers are increasingly focused on maintaining a presence in prime locations while shedding underperforming assets.

While the reasons for store closures vary, common factors include rising rents, increased competition from online retailers, changing consumer preferences, and the overall economic climate. These challenges underscore the importance of adaptability, innovation, and a strong understanding of customer needs in today's dynamic retail environment.

The closure of Sherman's Sports and Army Store marks the end of an era for Hendersonville, North Carolina, but its legacy of community service and dedication to its customers will undoubtedly endure. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, the importance of local businesses and the personal connections they foster remains as vital as ever.