Beloved Local Hardware Store in Belle Mead to Close after 30 Years

Long-time business partners Michael M. Peacos and Daniel A. Maciborski have decided to close their iconic CAMMPS Hardware Store, located on Route 206 in Montgomery Township.

Maciborski of Belle Mead and Peacos of Franklin Township have sold John Deere utility vehicles, land planes, Honda power equipment, Stihl chain saws, SCAG commercial mowers, parts, and more. They also serviced most brands of lawn and garden equipment.

A close-out sale is in progress through the end of the year.

“People are asking whether brick and mortar is where (retail) ought to be,” Peacos said in a telephone interview. “Do you need an online presence? How will you compete with Amazon and big box stores?”

Peacos and Maciborski own the building, located on 2.15 acres at 2168 Route 206 in the historic Harlingen village section of Belle Mead. The 13,048 SF includes a separate warehouse building and is listed for sale on NAI Fennelly (fennelly.com). Asking price is $2.1 million.

Peacos said the business closure was the result of “various issues that precluded a successful business transfer.”

“Restrictive township sign and display ordinances, onerous John Deere franchise requirements, outstanding questions on retailing in the future, and capital requirements for small business purchases, all led to the closure of the business,” he said.

The future of retail businesses in general is a question, as more and more purchases are made on line.

Meanwhile, about 19,000 vehicles per day pass the CAMMPS building, which could be used for retail, professional/office space, education, or more.

“Our experiences with everyone are memorable and we will miss the many familiar faces,” Peacos wrote on a sign on the door. “We are sure on occasion our paths will cross and we will reflect on good times. Thank you for many years of business.” ■