WDRB 41 Louisville - News, Weather, Sports CommunityJeffersontown billiard store closing

JEFFERSONTOWN, Ky. (WDRB) -- This is the time of year when retailers make most of their money for the entire year -- but for one small Jeffersontown business, this Christmas season will be its last.

Mike and Teresa Salvo opened Bottom English Billiards on Taylorsville Road in 2007. The business got off to a good start, but then the 2008 recession struck and things have not been the same since.

"It is very hard work, we've built it from scratch," said Mike. "It is very sad to see it go. At the same time, it has been very eye-opening for us to see what kind of business environment we are operating in.  It is very difficult for a small business."

The last day of business at the store will be Saturday December 31, New Year's Eve.

"It is difficult for us but it is also somewhat of a relief," said Teresa. "It has required a lot of time and a lot of effort and a lot of lost family time."

The Salvos hope their loyal but small customer base will make one last visit for some good deals during the holidays.

In addition to the shaky economy, the couple says they have had to deal with a changing economy. They says they cannot compete with online retailers and national discount chains.

"Your large department stores they buy in just fantastic bulk, they get better pricing," said Mike. "If I sell the same product, I might only buy five or ten of them.  I have got to pay more so I cannot sell as low."

The Salvos say they will miss their customers, they just wish there had been more of them. They say they are lucky in that they have other jobs to go to once their store closes.

But they will still have to pay off some debt from their business.  There is no bailout for small businesses like theirs.

"The bigger you are, the easier it is to make money," said Mike. "I think the odds are getting more and more stacked against the small business."

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