TIFTON — Tifton’s new appliance retailer aims to preserve the legacy of its predecessor in more ways than one.

American Appliance Sales and Services celebrated its grand opening Aug. 28, looking to provide residents of Tifton with factory-direct appliances, delivery, and setup services.

Co-owners Ronnie Barnes, Edsel Schofill, and Jason Coarsey have set up their shop in the former Western Auto on Main Street, a home and auto store that had been in operation since 1959. 

But though they purchased the property from former owner Jack Stone, they insist that the business is as much his as it is theirs, and attest he is always welcome to stop by and pay a visit.

“This is still his store,” Schofill said. “He can still come in just like he owns it.”

To celebrate their grand opening, the three owners partnered with the local chamber of commerce to hold a ribbon cutting, and offered refreshments to the guests of the morning event. 

Additionally, American Appliance is holding a sale on several of their appliances in honor of the occasion.

Schofill expressed an interest in holding a larger celebration, but stated much of their attention and time had been focused on managing the business in its fledgling weeks. He asserted that the store’s anniversary the following year would be a more fitting commemoration.

American Appliance is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, contact (229) 382-5767.