Vancouver's lone classical record store closing after 40 years in business

Vancouver’s only classical record store will be closing its doors after four decades.

In a Facebook post, Sikora’s Classical Records announced it will be closing on February 28, 2019, — the official date of the shop’s 40th anniversary.

“The reasons for our closing down are simply those you would guess at, given the state of the recorded music industry the world over. For us, it all boils down to what we have come to call “the 5 Dirty Ds,” wrote Sikora’s in the post.

The store explained that the “5 Dirty Ds” are demise of a certain proportion of their customer base, downsizing by those moving into smaller spaces, desertion by a certain percentage of former clientele who decided to support big online retailers, distribution, and digitalization of music.

“Our partners did their best for Vancouver, believing that no great city should be without a venue for the consumption and enjoyment of Classical music,” said Sikora’s.

“The partnership sat down and looked at the situation with the highest degree of consideration, and made what was a difficult but unavoidable decision to close the store and bring about the end of an amazing era.”

Sikora’s has started its clearance sale and is offering the following deals:

All new CDs and New LPs are 20% off until further notice
All used CDs and used LPs will continue to be 50% off

All sales are final.

Sikora’s also thanked its loyal customers in its closing announcement.

“No business can survive without its customers, and that is certainly true of Sikora’s.”

“When we think back on 40 years of business and the volume and breadth of people that have come through these doors, it’s been an amazing experience, and we have to thank you all, collectively, for your past, present, and continuing contributions to the unique entity that is Sikora’s Classical Records.”

Be sure to check out this Vancouver music gem at 423 West Hastings Street. For hours and more information check Sikora’s website.

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