Vroman's Bookstore, Pasadena, Calif., will close its Hastings Ranch store on Foothill Boulevard on May 12. Joel Sheldon, whose family has owned Vroman's for most of its 130-year history, announced in January that the company, which also includes the main store on Colorado Boulevard as well as Book Soup in West Hollywood, was seeking new ownership.
In a message to customers released yesterday, Vroman's noted that at the time of the earlier announcement, it was in lease negotiations for the Hastings Ranch location and optimistic about continuing to do business there. The company was not, however, able to reach an agreement with the property owner of Hastings Ranch that was sustainable, due to increasing occupancy expenses.
"After more than 20 years at that site, we have a dedicated customer base and an equally dedicated group of booksellers," Vroman's wrote. "We know that because we frequently hear from customers how much they love that store and the staff.... While this development is unexpected and disappointing, we are most disheartened by the impact on our co-workers. Their dedication and hard work made that store successful, and we are forever grateful. Twelve co-workers are impacted by this and we will do everything we can to support them through continued employment with the company where possible. Bookstores matter. Our top priority has always been to be a healthy and thriving bookstore destination no matter how many locations."
Vroman's added that it will "use this opportunity to concentrate our efforts on making the customer experience at our flagship store on Colorado Boulevard better than ever.... Rest assured, our Colorado Boulevard location is secure and the search for the right new ownership continues. As always, we greatly appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to serve you at our Colorado Boulevard location in the months and years to come."