The bakery originally opened in 2006

A longtime Capital Region bakery is saying goodbye to its retail stores after 20 years.

The Cookie Factory announced that its retail locations will be closing, sharing the news in a heartfelt message to customers, employees and the community.

Owners Chris and Joe Alberino opened The Cookie Factory in 2006, turning what they described as a "little dream" into a business that would eventually ship products across the country and have its cookies sold in supermarkets in 25 states.

"When we look back, the numbers aren't what we remember most. We remember you," the owners wrote.

They thanked generations of customers who visited for cookies, birthday cakes, coffee and other treats, as well as the employees who helped build the business over the past two decades.

"The Cookie Factory was never just a business to us. It was our family, our livelihood, our passion and a huge part of our lives," Chris and Joe wrote.

While the retail stores are closing, this isn't the end of The Cookie Factory entirely. The owners say their cookies will continue to be available at Hannaford Supermarkets, Stewart's Shops and other local retailers.

"We close this chapter, we do so with a tremendous amount of gratitude and an unbelievable collection of memories that we will carry with us forever," they wrote.

The announcement did not include a final day of operation for the retail stores.