After 43 years in business, Mohawk Valley Florist on Colonial Plaza in Ilion, will be changing owners.

Sam Geloso founded and opened the store in the 1960s and feels it’s time to give someone else a shot at running the business.

“I’m 70 years old,” Geloso said. “I think it’s time to step back and hand the reins off to someone new.”

Geloso says the business has been posted for sale for about two weeks and he’s seen some interest in it, but his hopes aren’t too high yet.

“I’ve been talking to my realtor who says it could take up to a year to sell a business,” Geloso said.

He is also quick to point out that he’s not retiring.

“I plan on staying on with the new owner for a period of probably a year,” Geloso said. “I’d guide them through the different holidays and familiarize them with the customers.”

As for employees, Geloso is not quite sure what would happen with that end of things yet.

“I think we’ll both have input in that,” Geloso said. “I think there are some key employees that need to stay.”

Any potential buyers would have to meet with both the realtor and Geloso before anything would be finalized.

source : www.herkimertelegram.com