University Appliance Inc., of Spokane Valley, has closed its doors, posting a sign on its front entrance there that says it has ceased operations after 29 years in business.

Representatives of the company couldn't be reached for comment, but another sign advertising a going-out-of-business sale also was hanging from the reader board at the company's Spokane Valley location, at 9907 E. Sprague, earlier this week.

There still was inventory in the building, and a delivery truck parked on the lot had a for sale sign on it.

The company, owned by William Tonani, formerly had locations on Spokane's North Side and in Coeur d'Alene, but the North Side store closed months ago and only the East Sprague location currently is listed on the company's Web site.

University Appliance was founded here in 1980. It sold household appliances, such as refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, washers, and dryers, including high-end brands such as Wolf and Sub-Zero, and catered to remodelers and custom home builders, along with consumers. One of its competitors here was Fred's Appliance Inc., another locally owned, high-volume retailer with multiple stores. At one time, the company employed close to 20 people among three locations.

Terry Hayes, the manager of Jeffrey's Appliance Service, at 111 N. Vista, says that company will continue to provide manufacturers' warranty services for appliances purchased at University Appliance. Jeffrey's used to share leased space with University Appliance at the Valley store location, but isn't affiliated with that business, Hayes says.