DURHAM, N.C. -- A void will soon be felt in downtown Durham as Morgan Imports announces it will close after 51 years in business.

The store first opened in 1969. 

"We've been thinking about it for a long time. It just seems like the stars are lined and we just decided this is the time to close the store," says Co-Owner Richard Morgan.

Morgan and his wife, Jacqueline, say the pandemic was a factor but not the only reason. They've been considering going out of business for the past few years. 

"One on hand it's extremely emotional. It's hard to deal with," says Jacqueline. "On the other hand people are saying such nice things."

The store will begin its "Bye-Bye Sale" this Thursday until the items run out, which Morgan believes will be around November. 

The couple says the store's closing should be seen as a celebration.