Benny’s, a family-owned southern New England retail chain known for low prices and its distinctive red facade, will shutter all 31 stores by the end of this year.

The decision affects the East Wareham store, located at 3066 Cranberry Highway.

When reached for comment, a manager at the store said: “We’re not allowed to talk to anybody about that.”

Company officials made the announcement Friday, citing challenges they face from online retailers.

“The retail landscape has changed dramatically – especially for ‘brick and mortar’ businesses. The decision to retire was strongly influenced by this changing face of retailing,” the company said in a statement posted on its Facebook page.

Comments from Benny’s Vice President Arnold Bromberg echoed that sentiment.

“We take great pride in what our retail stores have meant to our employees and loyal customers for so long. But it is simply time,” said Bromberg in a statement. He added that industry changes make it “nearly impossible for small, family-owned chains like ours to reasonably compete moving forward.”

Founded in 1924 by Benjamin Bromberg, the company’s first location was on Fountain Street in Providence and sold radio equipment and auto parts.

In the years since, its offerings have expanded to include toys, bicycles, beach gear, lawn and garden items and more.