【一畑百貨店】「長い間ありがとうございました」　昭和・平成・令和3つの時代を駆け抜け65年の歴史に幕　最終日には12000人が訪れ感謝伝える　島根県松江市

Ichibata Department Store Managing Director Tomohiro Inoue "Thank you for all your hard work over the years." On January 14th, Ichibata Department Store in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, closed its doors after 65 years of history. On the final day, the 14th, many people came out to bid farewell. We interviewed fans and staff members to share their thoughts. ◇ ◇ Ichibata Department Store announced its closure last June. A catchphrase was displayed in the window. Ichibata Department Store President Kaname Nishikori "Ichibata Department Store's catchphrase for a long time has been 'Love the People, Love the City,' and I think it was one of Ichibata's most beloved catchphrases. I hope seeing it will make people think even more of Ichibata Department Store." Setsuko Yoshiyama, a veteran sales associate with 33 years of experience at Ichibata Department Store, maintained the department store's signature customer service, catering to the preferences of regular customers, even on the final day. Regular Customer "He's a great conversationalist. He's good at business and speaks in the friendly Sanin dialect, so it was really comfortable." Setsuko Yoshiyama "I'm so grateful to our customers. It's our job, so we want to make sure we have no regrets until the very end. They really do come, and if they stay for a long time, we have a lot of loyal customers." On this day, not only the store staff but also the regular customers expressed their gratitude. At the booth for Ichibata Department Store's paid membership, the "Ichibata Friends Association"... Customer "I've got so many fond memories. I was in tears from the start. I hope to see you again." On the final day, 12,000 people, four times the usual number, visited the store and enjoyed Ichibata Department Store's final day. Ichibata Department Store Managing Director Tomohiro Inoue "The number of customers is incredible." Tomohiro Inoue, Managing Director, Ichibata Department Store, has been with the store for 42 years. While he loved his workplace, he also felt a sense of responsibility for the store's closure. On this day, he actively worked the sales floor, greeting familiar customers and associates, and received many words of appreciation. Ichibata Department Store Managing Director Tomohiro Inoue "They told me, 'You've worked so hard.' It really hits home. I feel like I've been able to contribute to the community. I'm truly grateful to our customers for the past 65 years; that's all I can say." Ichibata Department Store was founded in 1958 by Ichibata Electric Railway, which was diversifying its operations. As Shimane Prefecture's only department store, it had long been beloved by the local community. However, in recent years, sales have slumped due to the rise of online shopping and suburban shopping malls, as well as the impact of COVID-19. It was forced to close. The venue also featured a panel exhibition looking back at the store's history through photographs. Among them was a woman nostalgically gazing at a photo. Yumi Ishikura "I worked there until four years ago. So I really wanted to come here today." Looking at the photos, Yumi Ishikura started working at Ichibata Department Store after graduating from high school. She left the store for a while to get married and have a child, but later returned. She says this place holds many memories. Yumi Ishikura "So many memories. I still have friends from when I joined the company, and it's like home to me. All I can say is 'thank you.' It's kind of sad, but thank you so much." And then, 6:30 PM arrived. A large crowd gathered at the main entrance of Ichibata Department Store, mourning the store's closure. Visitor "Department stores always had a cultural vibe to them." "They were also social gatherings. It was an important place for us." At the closing ceremony, President Kaname Nishikori expressed his gratitude to those gathered. Ichibata Department Store President Kaname Nishikori "The time is fast approaching as we draw to a close our 65-year history, spanning three eras: Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa. We would be happiest if your memories could remain in your hearts." And finally... Ichibata Department Store Managing Director Tomohiro Inoue "We are now closing Ichibata Department Store. Thank you for your continued patronage." Ichibata Department Store was beloved by many and shaped the times. Its history has come to an end with many fond memories. The land and building of Ichibata Department Store are owned by Ichibata Electric Railway, but the company is currently negotiating two options: renting the property to a tenant or selling it. The company also plans to keep the parking lot open. (From News Every Nihonkai, broadcast on January 15, 2024) [Nihonkai TV App] https://www.nkt-tv.co.jp/appli/ [Website] https://www.nkt-tv.co.jp/ [Nihonkai TV Official YouTube Channel]    / @nkt1channel   [Nihonkai TV News Channel]    / @nihonkai-new.  .