Kalins Furniture to Close

March 1, 2016  by in Furniture Retailing, Industry   

Founded in 1950 by Ed Kalin and his wife, Alyce Kalin, Kalins Furniture operated for most of its history as Kanes of Sarasota. In 2013, the Kalin family chose the new name of Kalins Furniture to end the confusion between Kanes of Sarasota and similarly named stores in Florida.

Ed Kalin announced his retirement earlier this year. The family considered an expansion before deciding to close. An expansion would be necessary to remain competitive in this market, according to a family spokesperson.

“We are a full-service furniture store, voted winners of the Sarasota Herald Tribune’s Best Furniture Store award for 16 years in row,” said Jeff Kalin, co-owner of the store with his father Ed. “At Kalins Furniture, we are committed to helping you achieve your dream of home, while expressing your unique style. We have something to suit anyone’s taste and budget, as well as a professional staff to assist you.”

One key element of Kalins’ success has been its involvement in the community. In 1988, Ed Kalin was honored with the local Anti-Defamation League’s Distinguished Community Service Award, and he later received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jewish National Fund. Alyce Kalin served on the board of the Van Wezel Foundation and the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation. The couple supported a range of other organizations, including the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Ringling School of Art and Design and the Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center.

A going out of business sale, managed by Planned Furniture Promotions, will begin Friday.

The company’s building, which has three acres of space, is also available for sale or lease.