An iconic downtown Kennewick business has shut its doors after 100 years.
Farmers Exchange, which had a full-service nursery, equipment dealership and repair shop off West Canal Drive, officially closed Monday, July 1, owner Chris Ingersoll confirmed. However, it’s expected to reopen later in the week for a liquidation sale; Ingersoll plans to announce details on the Farmers Exchange Facebook page.
“It’s obviously devastating to be in this place,” he said, noting that he’s been flooded with well wishes from the community after announcing the closure.
The staff of about 20 people has been understanding, he said.
Ingersoll is the great-grandson of one of the store’s original owners. The business started in 1924 as a farm and feed shop, and while it’s evolved and changed in its 100 years, a throughline has been an emphasis on doing right by customers, Ingersoll said.
“Our signature has always been the best possible customer service. I think that’s the legacy we leave down here,” he told the Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business.
Ingersoll came on board as the owner in 2021, buying Farmers Exchange from his uncle Keith Silliman. Last year, he added a Richland location that’s now also closed.
Economic factors
Ingersoll said economic factors led to the decision to close.
“The economy has been getting progressively worse each year since I purchased the business,” he said. “People are buying a lot less because of inflation. The equipment industry, in particular, has been struggling across the board.”
Those factors coupled with rising costs have meant instability, he said.
‘We’re gutted…’
When he announced the closure on social media, customers and downtown businesses chimed in with comments about the difference the store has made. It’s long been a champion of downtown; Ingersoll’s great-grandfather was a downtown association leader.
“We’re gutted to hear this news,” wrote Hot Mess Burgers & Fries. “You’re like family to Hot Mess and everyone on our block. Thank you for your decades of dedication, love and service to our community. Our lawns and farms won’t be the same without you.”
Ice Harbor Brewery added that, “as our long time up-the-block neighbor, we can’t imagine the downtown Kennewick landscape without you in it. Very sorry to hear this. Thank you for all of the beautiful flowers in our planters and many years of shared community.”
Ingersoll said he’ll be reaching out to customers with orders and with equipment in for repair.
It’s hard to see Farmers Exchange close, he said, but he’s glad to have been part of its legacy. “Mostly,” he said, “I feel really grateful to have to have gotten the store to 100 years and to have run the family business, even if for a short time.”