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A long-time Yellowknife business is closing its doors after 31 years of operation.

Jim White, owner of Fiddles and Stix, confirmed to SA国际影视传媒 on Friday that the store will be shutting down, citing a combination of recent below-average sales and his desire to retire.

The last day of business will likely be Sept. 26 or 27, he said.

"It's mixed feelings, for sure," said White, noting that running the store has taken up much of his free time. "It's going to be a little sad, but in some ways, I'm ready to retire."

In the meantime, the store is holding a progressive sale, with discounts increasing gradually until the store closes. Currently, everything is 10 per cent off. In two to three weeks, the discount will rise to 20 per cent and continue from there.

"There's definitely going to be some good deals," said White.

The building has been purchased by North Creative, a Yellowknife-based marketing agency. White said the company first approached him about buying the property more than a year ago.

As for whether another music store will open in town, White wasnSA国际影视传媒檛 sure. He pointed out that many customers now rely on online shopping, a shift that continues to challenge small businesses.

"Amazon is just killing every small business," he said. "Anything they can, they get into."

Still, for items like guitars, White said many customers prefer to try them in person before buying.

"That won't be an option now," he said.

White also thanked the community for its longtime support.

"I just really appreciate it," he said. "Hopefully, someone else might be able to get something else going in town."