The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

Peru – On Wednesday, January 6, 2016 one of the area’s longest-operating businesses was passed on to new ownership. New owner-operator Chris Akey said, “The Peru Farm Center is a 65-year old local business that we want to continue through the 100-year mark. We are very excited to be joining the Peru business community.” Akey purchased the business from longtime owners Mark Jarvis and Don McNulty.

The Akey family is known for its many business interests along Route 3 in Plattsburgh. At one time, Chris Akey’s late grandfather, Frank Akey, operated a Case farm equipment dealership competing with the Peru Farm Center. Today Chris Akey operates the Taylor Rental stores on Route 3 and in Saranac Lake. The building Anthony’s Restaurant occupies was once the Akey family farmhouse and location for Frank Akey’s farm equipment dealership.

Chris Akey, his wife Ashley and their two children live in the Peru School District. Ashley will be the Peru Farm Center’s bookkeeper and Chris’ brother-in-law Jordon Keleher will be the general manager. Four to six new employees are to be hired.

Anyone stopping by the Peru Farm Center will get a taste of the changes to come. This morning the building’s interior and roof were in the midst of renovations. New Holland hay, forage and industrial equipment such as skid steers, mini excavators and compact wheel loaders will soon be on display in an elevated display area adjacent to Route 22. The Husqvarna power equipment lineup will be expanded and Ferris Zero Turn mowers will be introduced to the North Country. The redesigned interior display room will be stocked with a large inventory of consumer hardware and power equipment.

A grand opening is being planned once renovations are completed and the expanded inventory is in place.