18. Shoppers React to G. Whiz Store Closing in Barrington

Local shoppers say they will dearly miss long-time Barrington gift shop, G. Whiz, when it closes its doors for good at the end of March.  The store’s owners, Bob & Jan Cunningham, publicly announced yesterday they’re closing G. Whiz to move on to semi-retirement after more than two decades offering shoppers “gifts that get noticed” in Barrington.  Today they started the process of liquidating all merchandise, furniture, store fixtures and equipment in a huge store closing sale that will last until everything is sold.

Jan says they have loved every minute of having their business in Barrington.  “Barrington is a great community and has been a wonderful place to own a business.  We have such great customers who are so honest and so loyal and who really care about supporting local businesses.  Our sales here have always been really strong, so it’s not a financial decision.  We’d just like to move on the next chapter, simplify our lives and do other things like focus more on family, volunteering and travel.”

Jan and Bob Cunningham originally began their business at the former Bell’s Apple Orchard, featuring their own jewelry creations.  They moved their business to The Foundry of Barrington in 1993.  We asked Jan’s loyal shoppers who follow our Facebook page to let us know what they’ll miss most about G. Whiz, and here’s what they had to say:

“Jan & the staff”  – Mary Ambrose Gerak

“Everything”  – Suzie Aros

“I liked it as a one stop shop for gifts.”  – Jeanette August Henning Collier

“I’ll miss G. Whiz.  Always loved their jewelry and seasonal decor.”  – Sandy Michlig-Kraimer

“I’ll really miss Jan and Bob.  G. Whiz was my ‘Go To’ store. It had everything I needed for any occasion. I want to thank Jan personally for all the support and love she gave my daughter, Jennifer. I have been reading all the cards and notes she sent – Jenny was lucky to have known Jan.  She is a gem!”  – Becky Monek

“G. Whiz has always been one of my favorite places to find gifts for my family, friends and co-workers. I’ll miss the store for the convenience, for its unique gift selection and its upbeat and sunny presence in our community.”  – Suzanne Luby

“So sad! Where will I get last minute gifts??”  – Jennifer Kainz

“Can’t believe you won’t be there when I need to find a treasure. Good luck and best wishes in retirement.”  – Marie Thomas

Jan says she and Bob will still be busy managing the two PANDORA stores they own at Deer Park Town Center and in Tucson, AZ.  But closing G. Whiz will allow them more time to spend with family, including their two sons, Matthew and Bryan.

The G. Whiz store closing sale started today with an invitation-only event.  Jan says all merchandise is discounted by between 15 and 75% off.  Tomorrow, the sale opens to the public at 10 a.m. and items will be deeply discounted until everything is gone.  They’ll also continue taking special orders on merchandise until February 20th.  “Everything is marked down, plus we have contests and we’re giving away TV’s and lots of special prizes.  It’s been a pleasure to serve this community and we hope you will miss us as much as we’ll miss you.”  Their very last day in the space will be on Sunday, March 31st.

You’ll find G. Whiz at The Foundry of Barrington, 724 W. Northwest Highway, you can reach them by phone at 847-304-0255 and you’ll find them online at ShopGWhiz.com.