Rough Trade NYC is closing its Williamsburg location.
The Williamsburg store will close in spring, and relocate in the summer to a new space in New York. Its online record store will continue to operate during this transition.
Rough Trade NYC’s concert venue, operated in partnership with The Bowery Presents, will not re-open in the area.
Stephen Godfroy, co-owner of Rough Trade, said, “As with many businesses right now, the impact of the pandemic has made us rethink our approach, giving us the opportunity to reconsider how best to serve the rapidly increasing number of vinyl lovers in New York – that in spite of the adverse conditions surrounding the pandemic, demand for vinyl is positively booming.”
“As with so many other retail sectors, sales are diverting online, along with the power and reach of online communities, all of which gives us inspiration to become more and not less accessible, to creatively reassess the junction between online and offline interaction. Regretfully, in order for us to freely respond to these new opportunities, we shall have to bid a heartfelt and fond farewell to our beloved, inaugural US, Williamsburg premises.”
He added, “Having the confidence to relocate and reimagine would not be possible if it weren’t for the warm embrace New York has given us, a city where a love for music inspiringly brings people together and breaks down cultural divides.”
“On behalf of everyone at Rough Trade and The Bowery Presents, we humbly extend our immense and sincere gratitude to all our music loving patrons. Rest assured, Rough Trade will retain its presence in New York – we look forward to sharing details of our exciting new plans in coming months.”
The New York store opened in 2013, and is located in an ex-warehouse building on North 9th Street. Head to Rough Trade NYC’s site to stay up to date with live stream events.
