Larry Miller Automall
CALDWELL -- The bad economy has claimed another victim. After more than 12 years in business, the Larry Miller Automall in Caldwell is shutting its doors.
The announcement came down just before noon Tuesday, which is also when employees were notified.
One half of this mall shut down a couple months ago after General Motors terminated its franchise agreement.
Next week the entire operation will close. The reason for this closure appears to be a simple case of supply and demand.
The Automall and the manufacturers determined the market has more dealerships than are needed based on current auto sales and future predictions.
"In this last year, the recession has adjusted a lot of things and the auto industry has been hit by the recession and I think it's required everybody to be a little better at what they do. The manufacturers are seeing that opportunity, as well." said Scott Harding, Larry Miller Automotive.
The announcement is hitting the community hard. Tracy Kasper is Chairman of the Board for the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce. She's also a customer and friend.
"Because we are such a tight knit group and such a good community here, we'll absorb that and we'll be OK, but just for now it's going to be hard for us to say goodbye to Larry Miller," said Kasper.
The Automall opened in Caldwell on April 10, 1997 and currently has 47 employees. Larry Miller is working with Wiebold and other dealerships to absorb the majority of those workers. Those who are let go, will get compensation based on their length of time with the company.
Those who own cars and trucks from these retailers are being encouraged to visit one of the three Larry Miller dealerships in Boise.
Caldwell lost another dealership last month.
Lithia Motors closed Chevrolet of Caldwell - formerly Lanny Berg Chevrolet - as part of the General Motors restructuring.
