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Rough Trade NYC to relocate, closing Williamsburg location this spring

Record store/music venue Rough Trade NYC will find a brand new home in the Big Apple.

Announced today, the store will be relocating to an undisclosed area this summer. Its Williamsburg location, which opened in 2013, will close its doors this spring. In a press release, co-owner Stephen Godfroy 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.

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. In the meantime, we look forward to welcoming 'first time' and returning customers to our Williamsburg store, along with all of those enjoying the convenience of shopping at Rough Trade dotcom.”

Those who bought tickets for cancelled Rough Trade NYC shows in person can grab refunds at the box office. Those who bought tickets online will gain an automatic refund. Since its opening, artists such as Halsey, Tegan and Sara, and Gorillaz have performed at the 250-capacity spot.