A retail store that has been a fixture in downtown Quincy for nearly 70 years is closing its doors.

In a press release, Dale and Gary Kirlin announced Monday morning that their original retail outlet at the corner of 6th and Maine will close for good April 29th.

The Kirlins point to the general decline of downtown business districts and the shifting of consumer shopping patterns to malls and lifestyle centers as factors in the decision to close the downtown location.

What began as Andes Candies on North 6th in 1948, became Kirlin’s Hallmark, first at 518 Maine and finally in the old Kresge Building at 6th and Maine.

The Kirlin’s brand grew to include 90 retail locations in ten states, but has dwindled in recent years to 27 stores in five states.

The Kirlin’s Hallmark in the Quincy Mall will remain open.

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