Family-owned cigar shop closes after 24 years in Kalamazoo

KALAMAZOO, MI — Smokes on Burdick will shut its colorful storefront down on Sept. 28.

Running a family-owned small business at 1222 S. Burdick Street became increasingly difficult for John Milne and his wife Jodi as construction carried on throughout the summer.

"Times are just tough," Milne said. "We have way too much property, more property than we need and we just can't swing it anymore."

Before closing permanently, everything in the 5,200-square-foot store must go.

"This whole place is kind of like a cigar museum," Milne said.

In addition to vintage cigars made in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and cities across the state, Milne is selling furniture, framed artwork, cigar boxes, hats and collectables.

Everything posted on the business's Facebook page is available on a first come, first served basis, Milne said. The shop will be open during regular business hours until Sept. 28.

Smokes on Burdick has suppled celebratory cigars for countless weddings, graduations and births, Milne said. Though he will miss some of his regular customers, Milne said there is a bright side to stepping away from the shop.

"We haven't had a vacation in 30 years," Milne said. "We'll start there, then we'll figure out what's next."

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