Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Dear Customer of AAA Creative Sewing Centers;

Many of you know that two weeks ago we were forced to close our stores by the financial institution that holds the security interest against the company’s assets. Our recent liquidation sale reduced our inventories below the minimum required level of the bank and it exercised its right to take control of the business I have owned for 22 years. It is a very sad and uncontrollable situation for all of us that worked at AAA as well as all of our loyal customers.

The company had been struggling financially for some time. However, the recent downsizing actions and structural improvements I initiated in the last two years had turned the company around and for the last year AAA was profitable again. Unfortunately though, the economic instability of 2008 took a tremendous toll on our sales and in the end we could not survive it.

AAA has been the leading sewing retailer in Colorado for over twenty years and ironically still was until the day we had to close. We will miss the thousands of customers we have happily served over the past 40 years. I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience our unfortunate closure has caused all of you.

I am happy to tell you that there is some good news. Quality Sewing and Vacuum Centers will be taking over the operation of our locations and continuing to serve all of our former AAA customers. They have given us their word that they will honor all CMP service contracts and also oblige any customers who were still waiting for ordered products etc. at the time of our closing. Quality is based in Seattle and is the largest sewing retailer in the world. They have an exceptional reputation for great customer service and will serve your sewing needs well.

I have enjoyed my relationship with thousands of you for many years and I will miss you all. Most of you know that I take my relationship with God very seriously and as hard as this experience is for me I know I must accept that it is His Will for me. When He closes one door another is opened and I am sure that He has a new chapter of success awaiting our entire staff at AAA. However, no matter where my future takes me, my heart will always be full of fond memories of knowing and serving you.

May God bless us all;

Ben Hearn

AAA Creative Sewing Centers