Smithland Pet & Garden Centers has announced that it will shut down all its 13 retail stores after 40 years of delivering service to New England’s pet and gardening communities. The business launched in 1985 and has transformed into an iconic brand throughout Connecticut and Western Massachusetts while providing pet goods alongside gardening equipment and backyard accessories.
The announcement came through on May 5, 2025, following which the company declared that every location would begin running their final storewide sales the next day. Smithland customers face a historic change as the stores must shut their doors while denying expert guidance and premium services that have built years of customer loyalty.
A Brand Built on Local Roots
Smithland started operations under the names MyAgway and Dave’s Soda and Pet City because its founders loved pets and gardening alongside backyard activities. Families visited Smithland shops because they received something beyond products; they received genuine retail experiences. Customers valued Smithland stores because of their educated staff members and approachable service, combined with their dedicated community focus. Customers frequently brought their dogs while waiting to shop or meet employees to trade gardening advice and discover seasonal decorative features throughout the year.
Smithland provided customers with an entire selection of pet food and supplies and wild bird seed, as well as garden tools and fertilizers and outdoor furniture, and grills, which made it a superior destination for customers seeking home and garden products. Customers especially adored the brand for its regional focus and its yearly events.
Locations Affected
Smithland maintains seven retail locations across Connecticut with stores positioned in Bethel, Manchester, Middlefield, North Branford, North Haven, Old Saybrook, and Southington. The company operates six stores across Massachusetts. The closing sale events at 13 locations of Smithland will offer deep discounts on all their stock, starting from pet food, followed by lawn care products alongside garden tools, and additional merchandise.
Additionally, the company will be selling its products, store fixtures, and equipment as it winds down its operations. Hilco Consumer-Retail, a firm specializing in strategic retail closures, is managing the sales.
Important Dates and Customer Information
From May 6, 2025, and up till thenSmithland will have its last sale event with a large number of people coming in search of bargains on the best goods. All purchases made on or after May 6 will be final, the company said. As long as a receipt is given, returns on items bought before then will be accepted until May 20, 2025.
Smithland will also cease selling gift cards as of May 5 and allow rewards program points to accrue through May 12. The company has also discontinued online purchasing on the company’s website and will no longer be accepting checks in stores. During the closing period, customers can still use cash, credit cards, or Smithland gift cards.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
Smithland said in its official statement that it is thankful to its customers for the support extended over the last 40 years. The company added that this message was not a goodbye without deep gratitude. “We want to thank every customer who supported us, every pet who wagged through our doors, and every neighbor who chose Smithland for their garden beds, lawns, and backyard flocks.”
The announcement continued with a message of love for the community: We have always loved animals and plants at Smithland, and while that definitely hasn’t changed, it’s our customers who have made all the difference.” We’ll miss every tail wag, garden tip, and friendly face.”
A Local Legacy Comes to an End
The closing of Smithland will create a hole in the regional market for family-friendly, community-oriented garden and pet centers. The news is emotional and nostalgic for many customers, especially those who valued in-person service and advice.
While the specific reasons for the closure have not been made public, the company has stated that this decision was not made lightly. In a rapidly changing retail landscape, many brick-and-mortar businesses have struggled to compete with big-box retailers and e-commerce platforms.
