Iconic downtown La Crosse business to close

Citing a changing landscape for retail, Wettstein’s in downtown La Crosse is shutting its doors.
 
Wettstein’s has been open for 67 years and the business has weathered significant changes and the great recession ten years ago.
 
In a statement released today, owner Dan Wettstein said, “This is not an easy decision, Our business has been a part of the tri-state area for a long time. We’ve invested so much to support downtown business, its revitalization, and our community.”
 
Wettstein also addresses the way online sales have created a challenge for stores like his. “The retail landscape has changed dramatically and many brick and mortar stores are struggling. The internet has changed the way people shop and it has reduced profits for both chain stores and independent retailers alike. As well as sales tax issues from internet sales that have drastically hurt overall retail sales revenues and profits.”

This closing does in NO way affect Industrial Automation and Engineering owned by Mike Wettstein and Wettstein Brothers Electric owned by Andy Wettstein.

“When you think of downtown stores, Wettsteins is top of mind,” said Vicki Markussen, executive director of La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce.“ She said, adding,”They never compromised on what they knew they could do better than any online competitor — provide exceptional customer service. They leave with that outstanding reputation intact.”

“Valuing that customer service that you get through a local company is really what’s gonna keep these companies vibrant,” Markussen tells WIZM News. 

Wettstein’s will be selling its downtown La Crosse property.

Gerhard’s Kitchen & Bath Store in La Crosse will acquire Wettstein’s lighting division.

The Wettstein’s announcement comes the same week that Onalaska’s Toys R Us store closed its doors. 

The last stores in that retail chain are shutting down on Friday.