Yellowknife (May 31/06) - After more than three decades in operation, a landmark business in Yellowknife will lock its doors for the final time today. MicroAge Computer Stores is closing down after being in business for 32 years.

Gary Kamitomo, general manager at MicroAge Computer Stores, will close the firm's doors today for the final time. The company had been in business for 32 years in the city. - David Ryan/NNSL photo

"It's a long legacy to shut down," said president and chief executive officer of Nor-Dat, Dan Hinchey, who's company owns the MicroAge franchise in Yellowknife.

The computer service and supply store was originally opened in 1974 by Hinchey's parents. Technology has advanced so quickly that a lot of computer retail stores have been forced to close down in the last few years across Canada, he said.

"The margins have shrunk and the pattern for buying computers has changed dramatically," said Hinchey.

At one time the MircoAge store had 15 staff members but more recently it has been running on just four.

The cost of bringing in computer supplies to Yellowknife, compared to the selling price, created smaller margins of profitability in the last few years, said Gary Kamitomo, general manager of MicroAge and partner in Nor-Dat.

Kamitomo, who has worked with the company for 20 years, said he's proud that some of the North's leading information technology workers got their start at MicroAge.

"A lot of former employees are working in all aspects of the technology field in the North" he said.

A loyal client base has been a big part of the store's success and Kamitomo said he's glad clients have been so understanding with the closure.

"We really enjoyed working with fantastic customers and fantastic staff," he said.

Previous MicroAge customers will now have to look to Yellowknife's four other computer supply and service stores for products and technical know-how. Dale Crouch, president of Tamarack Computers, is uncertain his store will gain more business with MicroAge's departure, but said having computer services in Yellowknife is essential.

"Local computer support is important," he said. "Access to support and being able to trouble-shoot problems is important."