Traffic backed up on Route 1 as Frugal Fannie’s closing sale begins Editor/Senior Digital Producer, WCVB.com WESTWOOD, Mass. —Route 1 was packed with traffic in Westwood, Massachusetts, as shoppers rushed to Frugal Fannie’s for the first day of its closing sale. Frugal Fannie’s announced Wednesday that it would close after 43 years in business. Owners Kathleen and Orrin Doxer said the decision was due to health considerations, retirements of key staff and the end of the store’s lease with no option to renew. “It is with deep sadness that we close this brilliant chapter and look forward to our customers visiting us during the final weeks of our business,” said Kathleen Doxer. Since 1983, Frugal Fannie’s has been offering deals on dresses, shoes, jewelry and more. Kathleen Doxer, known as “Fannie” in the store’s television commercials, touted the retailer as “worth the trip.” “They have everything you need if you’re going on a cruise or if you’re shopping for shoes or boots. Dresses. I just bought a dress for my son’s wedding in Scotland next year. The dress is absolutely gorgeous,” Jane O’Neil said. Loyal shoppers braved the crowds at Frugal Fannie’s and scored deals before the store closed for good. “I was devastated because this is my go-to place,” Vernette Banks said. Banks and her sister Gale Thompson have been shopping at Frugal Fannie’s since the 1980s. “My suits, when I was working I came here to get my suits, my jewelry, my shoes, my nightgown so I could look beautiful,” Banks said. “We’re both in shock. I just couldn’t imagine this store was closing,” Thompson said. Shoppers braved traffic to take one last look. “I came from New Hampshire to Route 1 with no traffic. The last half mile took me over a half hour,” Janet Forti said. “I’ve never been here before. I think it’s so nice. I’m so sad that the store is closing. I’m having a lot of fun with my daughter,” Jocelynn Miller said. After more than an hour in line, shoppers said the wait was worth it. “It took a while. The line. I think it was worth it,” said Helena Goessens.Sky5: Busy lines Route 1 for Frugal Fannie closing the sale
