It took four years, but one of Milt Layman’s goals was finally accomplished.
Earlier this month, Layman, owner of The Sports Shop, took over ownership of Meyers Sports, a business that has had a presence in the community for 22 years.
“It was a friendly transaction,” Layman said of the purchase. “Kelly (Meyers) and I have always had a great business relationship.”
Layman said the process began four years ago when he approached Meyers about whether he’d ever want to sell the business. At the time, Layman said Meyers wasn’t ready to leave the sporting goods world just yet.
But in June, Layman got a call from Meyers, who said the time had come for Meyers Sports to retire from the locker room, according to a statement released by the store.
“Kelly was certainly ready to sell this time,” Layman said. “It took a few days to think about, but I knew this was something I definitely wanted to do.”
With the sale, Layman said The Sports Shop has taken over Meyers Sports’ inventory, tools and equipment. The location of Meyers Sports will no longer be used as a sports shop, and the store’s sport inventory has moved to The Sports Shop’s location at 345 Third Street.
“I have room for everything here and didn’t see it was necessary to keep up two locations,” Layman said.
With the purchase also comes new offerings from The Sports Shop. Layman said his business will now offer custom embroidery and imprinting apparel services. He added the customers will see little changes in pricing and all Meyers Sports skate sharpening cards will be honored through March 31 and skate leases will be fulfilled according to each individual agreement.
“I look forward to meeting new customers and servicing them,” Layman said.
Layman has been in the sporting goods business since 1995 when he bought out The Sports Shop from the previous owner. He recalls having an interest in the business and believed he could make a successful living from it. Three years later, he moved into the building on the corner that still serves as The Sports Shop today.
“I have learned a lot through my experiences over the years,” Layman said of his expertise.
Plans to hire more staff and continue the service he is proud of is in the near future, Layman said.
“I look forward to increasing my sales and reaching a larger group of people,” he said. “I have been shocked at the overwhelming positive feedback I’ve been receiving during the past few weeks. This is going to be a good thing.”
Although Meyers could not be reached for comment as of press time, a statement released from the store thanked its customers for “many years of faithful support.”
“It has been a privilege to be part of so many sports families’ lives and memories,” the statement said. “Continue to reach towards your dreams and make your communities proud of your accomplishments.”
The statement also noted that Meyers will continue to serve the city of International Falls as the building inspector and has plans to expand his Meyers Glass business.
