Canada’s Beloved Sam the Record Man Faces Uncertain Future as Owners Announce Retirement Sale

After 45 years in operation, the owners of Belleville, Ontario’s Sam the Record Man store, the last of its kind in Canada, have declared their readiness to retire. While the future of the iconic record store remains uncertain, Spencer Destun, the owner, is exploring various options to keep the legacy alive.

Destun and his wife have managed the Belleville Sam the Record Man store since its opening in 1979, with their son joining the team in 2000. Once part of a thriving chain established by Sam Sniderman in the 1930s, the Sam the Record Man franchise boasted 140 locations across Canada. However, after filing for bankruptcy in the early 2000s, the Belleville store stands as the last survivor.

Despite business going well, Destun has decided to initiate a retirement sale to reduce inventory and potentially attract buyers. The announcement has stirred the community, sparking concerns about the store’s possible closure.

Long-time customers, like Jim O’Leary, express mixed emotions, acknowledging the inevitability of change while cherishing the store’s timeless atmosphere. Carol Morris, an employee who became a fan before joining the staff, emphasizes the shop’s significance as an icon of Canadian music culture.

With a dedicated customer base, Destun remains optimistic about finding a buyer and passing the stores on to keep them within the community. The retirement sale serves as a way to showcase the store’s history, hoping that others can relish a nostalgic experience before any potential changes.

As the fate of Canada’s last Sam the Record Man store hangs in the balance, the community remains hopeful that the iconic music haven will endure, bringing people together through its rich history and diverse selection.