Axtion owner Ross Squires addressed children directly at one point in a Facebook video he shared Tuesday evening announcing the impending closure of the St. John's indoor amusement park.
"To all the kids who have come to Axtion and have actually boost your confidence by climbing heights you never thought you would before, or getting on a ride you were nervous (about) at first, I'm glad you built up your confidence," he said. "Hopefully, you'll take that with you, wherever you go in life."
Opening eight years ago in Mount Pearl before moving to a new location on Hebron Way in St. John's, the business will close for good after this Sunday, Jan. 17. Axtion features climbing walls, rides, inflated slides, bumper cars and a host of other fun attractions for kids. It was a popular space for birthday parties, among other events.
According to Squires, the COVID-19 pandemic hurt sales dramatically, and the operating expenses were becoming too much for him to stay in business.
"It's unfortunate, but we do have to close," he said. "We'd like to thank all our patrons in the past — kids’ birthday parties, general admissions, school outings, scouts, corporate parties, everything that's taken place here in the last eight years."
In a message that accompanied the video, Squires made clear this was not a decision he wanted to make.
"I don’t want to close, but it’s out of my control," he wrote, later adding the closure will affect 25 workers. "COVID won. For those who know me, you know I put my heart and soul into this business. I don’t want to do this, but Axtion can’t stay open without customers."
Squires went on to encourage the public to continue to support local small businesses as the pandemic continues.
"Give your children a hug from me and tell them I’m sorry Axtion had to close," he wrote.
Squires’ post attracted a lot of attention from well-wishers. Kelly Leach, executive director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Newfoundland, said Axtion was a noteworthy supporter of her organization.
"Thank you for all you've done for our community and the support you've given," she wrote. "We will miss you."
Jennifer Noonan was one of many parents who expressed disappointment over Axtion’s impending closure.
"We have been to Axtion a few times over the last few months as it was a great place for the kids to go have some fun despite the COVID situation and we were looking forward to going back," she wrote. "My kids will be devastated when they find out. I really hope they can find a way to continue operating!"
Customers who purchased Axtion passes through Costco will be able to get a refund directly from Costco, according to Squires.
Andrew Robinson is a business reporter in St. John's.
