What's happening?
Alchemy Records owner Walter Thorington announced the store's closure in an Instagram post, telling customers, "bye for now." The store had a 25% off sale in its final week.
He said he's been in San Marcos for almost 20 years and has watched community and business trends closely. He said the closure is a preemptive move for change he sees coming.
"I'm aware when things get hard, people choose to help their neighbors who are hungry or can't afford rent before they go and spend frivolously..." Thorington said. "I do think that there's going to be a big change here soon. So we're going to get out on top, if we can."
Looking ahead
Despite the store closure, Thorington said he and the records are not going anywhere. Customers can still find some inventory down the street at Old Soul Exchange and visit them at the Austin Record Convention on May 3 and 4.
As far as live music goes, Thorington hopes to keep presenting shows under the Alchemy name elsewhere.
"We're gonna drive around and do conventions across the country to stay alive, and when the time is right and San Marcos, I feel like, is ready for that again, I'll pop back up again," Thorington said.
- Closing April 26
- 145 S. LBJ Drive, San Marcos
- Instagram: alchemyrecordshop
