Creative Kidstuff closing all 6 Twin Cities locations by June 30

(FOX 9) - Creative Kidstuff is closing all six of its Twin Cities toystores, the company announced Wednesday.

According to Creative Kidstuff CEO Roberta Bonoff, the store will officially close on June 30. Stores will now offer several discounts as the company completes the liquidation process.

"We thank all of the families who have given us countless opportunities to watch you grow, learn and play. We know that inspired play will live on in so many ways in the Twin Cities, and we encourage everyone to support their favorite local retailers," Bonoff said. "Thank you for the wonder and imagination over these many years."

Just a short time after the employees were notified they would be out of a job this summer, customers started to hear about the closings.

“We need to support our local stores; they have unique things. It may be a few dollars more, but you know what, unless you’re on a super tight budget – I get it—but support these people if you can,” said grandparent Darla Groshens.

Bonoff said Creative Kidstuff tried to evolve with the times, but just couldn't compete anymore with Amazon and kids' appetite for more screen time.

“I think it’s really easy to press a button and buy something, but that experience of a child coming in to a store is really precious,” she said.

Founded in 1982 by Cynthia Gerdes, Creative Kidstuff has been known as a local alternative to big box stores with its unique toys and special gift wrapping. Creative Kidstuff has stores in Edina, south Minneapolis, Mall of America, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park and St. Paul.