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Philadelphia Business Journal - by Peter Van Allen , Staff Writer

Simon Pearce on the Brandywine will close its restaurant and glass blowing operation in West Chester, Pa., ending 65 jobs, the Vermont-based company said Wednesday.

A retail shop on the site will remain open until Feb. 13, offering discounts on merchandise. Wednesday is the last day of business for the restaurant and glass-blowing operation.

“The decision to close our facility in West Chester has been an extremely difficult one,” said business owner Simon Pearce, who was in West Chester Wednesday to inform the staff of the decision. “We care deeply about the people who have worked so hard to provide a great experience for our customers, but after 10 years we know that this decision is the right one for our business.”

A few of the employees may be moved to other locations, said spokesman Ross Evans.

The Windsor, Vt.-based company will focus on its core business, producing and marketing hand-blown glass, pottery and furnishings.

Simon Pearce was founded in Kilkenny, Ireland, in 1971. In 1981 it moved to Quechee, Vt., which remains one of its glass-blowing locations. The West Chester site opened in 2000.



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