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Hlíðarkaup Sold After 35 Years in Operation

From Morgunblaðið · () Icelandic

Translated from Icelandic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • Ásgeir Björgvin Einarsson has sold his store, Hlíðarkaup, in Sauðárkrókur after 35 years of operation.
  • New owners will take over the business on Friday, July 24.
  • Einarsson expressed gratitude to his staff and customers, highlighting the strong relationships built over the years.

After 35 years of dedicated service, Ásgeir Björgvin Einarsson has sold his store, Hlíðarkaup, in Sauðárkrókur. The new owners are set to take over the business on Friday, July 24.

When I opened Hlíðarkaup 35 years ago, my goal and guiding light was to run a good store where price and service were paramount. I never realized how big a role the staff who have worked for me and my customers would play in my life; over time, Hlíðarkaup became my second home.

— Ásgeir Björgvin EinarssonReflecting on his 35 years of running the store.

Einarsson reflected on his journey, stating that when he opened Hlíðarkaup 35 years ago, his goal was to run a good store with competitive prices and excellent service. He acknowledged that he never anticipated the significant role his staff and customers would play in his life, with Hlíðarkaup eventually becoming a second home.

It is a privilege to have interacted with so many customers. Over the years, we have met countless times at the counter. We have discussed joy and sorrows, world affairs and sports, about the children who grew up and the grandchildren who came into the world. We have laughed together, sometimes worried together, but always said goodbye with a smile and warm words. What began as business gradually became strong connections built on trust, respect, and friendship.

— Ásgeir Björgvin EinarssonDescribing the relationships formed with customers.

He described interacting with customers as a privilege, recalling countless conversations at the counter about life's joys and sorrows, world affairs, and family milestones. These interactions evolved from simple business transactions into strong bonds built on trust, respect, and friendship.

I want to thank all of you, each and every one, for standing by me all these years, for the trust you have shown me, and for all the little moments that have become unforgettable memories.

— Ásgeir Björgvin EinarssonExpressing gratitude to his customers.

The decision to sell was not easy, and while Einarsson admits to feeling a sense of loss, gratitude prevails. He thanked everyone for their unwavering support, trust, and the countless small moments that created unforgettable memories. He also emphasized the importance of his staff, calling them the heart of the store and crediting them for creating a warm atmosphere and exceptional service that made Hlíðarkaup more than just a place to shop, but a community hub.

No store is better than the people who work there. I have been extremely lucky with staff over the years. Each and every one of you has contributed to creating a warm welcome, the service, and the good atmosphere that has characterized Hlíðarkaup. The staff have greeted customers with care, shown concern, and played a big part in making the store more than just a place where people shop – rather a place where everyone knows everyone, meets, and chats.

— Ásgeir Björgvin EinarssonPraising his employees.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Morgunblaðið in Icelandic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.