Coronavirus didn’t help, but Muckenthaler Incorporated owner John Muckenthaler says the trends that led to his company’s ultimate closure later this year had been in place for several years.
Muckenthaler tells KVOE News online sales have become a big component of the food service equipment business, as evidenced by just one major online supplier.
Muckenthaler had tried to get state lawmakers to change the current policy of not collecting sales taxes on Internet-based sales, but changes are coming too late for his business. Coronavirus shrank the customer list as it closed restaurants and also caused schools to make major adjustments to their operations.
Muckenthaler says it’s disappointing to close the business, but he also says he’s grateful to have nearly 50 years in business to serve the community.
Muckenthaler started in 1970 after splitting from Emporia Wholesale Coffee Company, now known as EVCO. The company will close no later than New Year’s Eve. Muckenthaler says liquidation will start in early September, and the business will have extended hours to accommodate customers.
3:30 pm Tuesday: Muckenthaler Incorporated closing by end of year
One of downtown Emporia’s business fixtures for nearly half a century is closing its doors.
Muckenthaler Incorporated and MI Restaurant Equipment Supply, 308 Commercial, will end operations no later than New Year’s Eve, according to a social media post by the company. Muckenthaler plans to complete all obligations and current orders before it closes.
Company owners are not immediately available for comment.
Muckenthaler started in 1970 after splitting from Emporia Wholesale Coffee Company. It still works closely with EVCO, as well as other partners and the general public for commercial kitchen products, supplies and layouts.
