You can't chat with any local B'gamer for very long before you hear two things: "I'm going to miss Orchard Supply in Millbrae" and "I wish the Avenue would stay more local" or words to that effect like "it's just an outdoor mall" or "why can't we have more non-chain stores" or "how many hair and nail salons does this town need"? Here is news from the DJ about the closing of another chapter in the Avenue's story
After almost two decades of enduring a changing industry and local marketplace, independent bookstore Books Inc. announced it will be shuttering its location on Burlingame Avenue. Though the parent company continues to thrive despite the threat to retailers posed by the trend toward online sales, (President Michael) Tucker said the decision to close had more to do with the transition taking place in downtown Burlingame. “It’s just the reality of what goes on, that a low-margin business like books cannot compete for occupancy with the big boys, the national brands,” said Tucker, nodding to the corporations such as Apple, Lululemon or Pottery Barn which also occupy nearby storefronts.
You can click through to read the full story including kind words about Karim Salma (the landlord) and more of the DBID president's thoughts
Juan Loredo, president of the downtown business improvement district, said the company’s decision to leave is similar to the other tough choices faced by other local retailers. “The internet kind of paved the way for these smaller places and retail shops to leave because everyone is online shopping,” he said.
And this is welcome news also
Tucker took time to note though that the company plans to preserve its connection with local schools and organizations in Burlingame which the company has partnered with over the years.
Maybe this is an opening for some bookseller to find space in a less expensive part of B'game to make another run at it. I still miss the Feldman's that was a block north of B'way before consolidating down to the Menlo Park main store.
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