Just three months ago, Goody’s emerged from bankruptcy “a stronger, more competitive company better positioned for the future,” according to the company’s website

But on Wednesday, the retailer announced plans to liquidate all 286 of its stores – including the one in Greenville – and related assets. The company has an estimated 10,000 employees.

Goody’s opened its Greenville store in August 1999. It is one of the main anchor stores of the Butler Square Shopping Center and occupies a 30,000 square-foot space of the longtime strip mall.

At its opening 10 years ago, Goody’s employed up to 65 people.

Contacted on Friday, a manager told The Advocate she was not allowed to release any information regarding the possible closure of the Greenville store.

A sign on the door Friday said “All Sales Are Final.”

WVLT-TV in Knoxville, Tenn. – Goody’s base of operations – reported on Friday morning that the television station had obtained a two-page memo through Goody’s associates that detailed liquidation policies.

As of Friday, Jan. 9, the memo is reported stating, all sales are final and sales prior to Jan. 9 may be accepted for refund through Jan. 22.

The memo also stated:

– Gift cards, which have now been taken of the shelves, can be redeemed at any Goody’s location.

– Personal checks will no longer be accepted as payment.

– Employees are to maintain an interested list of buyers for store fixtures, which will be sold at a later date.

– All layaway customers should be contacted immediately and informed that they have until Jan. 22 to payoff items on layaway and pick those items up.

– All tuxedo orders for after Feb. 28 are to be cancelled.

Many financial experts agree that Goody’s is just the first of many retailers to close its doors in 2009.

Goody’s carries athletic wear from Nike and Adidas, as well as apparel by Levi Strauss & Co. and Lee Jeans. The company found a niche in offering affordable clothing to the middle class, but increased competition from Wal-Mart and Target – plus the added burden of the recession – crippled the company.

Goody’s was founded in 1953.