Drogen's Closing after 60 Years

ONEONTA, N.Y. (WKTV) – Drogen’s Home Furnishings on Route 23 in Oneonta will close in July, after more than 60 years of furnishing homes across Central New York.

The close comes with the retirement of second generation owner Arnie Drogen, choosing to retire from the furniture business and focus his attention on the family electrical supply company.

“We saw a tremendous opportunity and very substantial growth in the electric supply industry and then the opportunity came and a local merchant said he was very interested, so we said this is a great opportunity,” said Drogen.

Drogen started working in what was then his parents store when he was just a young boy. Although the business has changed with competition from larger retail stores and online shopping, he feels there’s still a place for local retail.

“For me, it’s very clear there is definitely a place in this world for locally-owned, independent business who offer, service, competitive pricing and the personal touch,” says Drogen. “And what I have observed over the years, even though there’s been lots of competition to those kinds of sorts, I think the local businesses will endure a long time.”

Once closed, the property will remain a local furniture store, turning into Scholet Furniture.

Drogen anticipates the store to close sometime in July. He said it’s just a matter of when all the furniture is sold.