Toy Zoo in Santa Maria to close its doors
After filling customer’s homes with toys and school supplies for over two decades, Toy Zoo and Anything Educational, Too has one more month left in business.
“It’s been really sad. I mean it’s bittersweet because I’m moving on and I feel good about that, but at the same time all the regulars that come in and all of the people that have supported us through the years have come in and expressed how much they miss us,” Marc Canigiula, Owner of Toy Zoo said.
“He always went out of his way to help the teachers when we came in to get things especially at the beginning of the year so this is going to be a big loss for teachers here in Santa Maria,” said Carla Lewis, a customer of the store for 18 years.
Canigiula says there were many reasons why the store is closing its doors.
“Michael’s moving had a little bit of an effect, we could’ve stayed with it and kept going, we could’ve moved locations, but I think so much shopping is happening online that the writing’s on the wall for that,” Caningula said.
As far as what’s next, Canigiula says he’s ready to ride into new beginnings.
“I have my real estate license so I’ll probably be going into real estate or something like that. I don’t know, but it’ll be an adventure.”
The store is having one last big event before they close their doors for good. On Saturday December 3, they will be hosting local author Farah Shaw for a book signing. Children of all ages are invited to come on out.
