Isis Parenting Stuns Families, Announces It's Closing
BOSTON (CBS) – Isis Parenting, a popular baby store that also offers prenatal classes and toddler development groups in Massachusetts, has announced it's closing unexpectedly.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Doug Cope reports
The business, which began in 2003 as Isis Maternity in Brookline, expanded to four centers in Boston, Needham, Arlington and Hanover and nine outlets in the Atlanta and Dallas/Fort Worth areas.
With heavy hearts, we announce the extremely sad news that Isis Parenting must close. Effective immediately, no... http://t.co/shOUuHFGw5
— Isis Parenting (@Isis_Parenting) January 15, 2014
"With heavy hearts, we announce the extremely sad news that Isis Parenting must close. Effective immediately, no classes or phone consults will take place," the company posted on its Facebook page late Tuesday night.
"We are taking steps to communicate with all affected class participants over the coming days and we thank the Isis community in advance for your patience and understanding during this very difficult time."
Clients with questions are urged to contact clientcare@isisparenting.zendesk.com
In a letter posted on the company's website, Isis CEO Heather Coughlin asked customers "for your compassion and support as we all digest this news, together."
She did not say why the company is closing, noting only that "Isis is not just another business closing its doors in the midst of headwinds."
The company's public relations office would not answer the question directly either.
"This was a difficult decision, but ultimately the only option for this beloved organization. It is a challenging time for independent retailers," Isis said in a statement to WBZ-TV.
The Massachusetts Attorney General's office told WBZ if you believe Isis Parenting owes you money, you should contact the AG's office.
"Please know that we are committed to making every effort to manage through this process with professionalism and respect for what you have lost as well. A separate communication will be sent to all currently enrolled class participants with more details. We thank you in advance for your patience as we work through this incredibly difficult process with a skeleton crew left on the team," Coughlin said in her statement.
Hundreds of customers were stunned by the news and posted messages on the Isis Facebook page.
"ISIS has been my home away from home for the past 2 years. It has provided my family with unbelievable support from pregnancy to sleep assistance to breast feeding, to amazing classes. I met some of my best friends there," Dawn Murray wrote.
"This is tragic. I don't understand. You just expanded out of state. I'm sad for all the future parents," wrote Sonia Targontsidis.
"Terrible news! Your webcasts helped with with three major sleep challenges with my twins. You're the ONLY resource where the recommendations actually worked! I wish there was some way to come out of this as an on-line co-op or something? Wishing the talented Isis Team all the best though!!!" wrote Sarah E. Dowds.
More details are available on the Isis blog.
Attorney General Martha Coakley's office wants to hear from anyone who feels Isis owes money and isn't refunding. The Consumer Hotline: 617-727-9400