AUSTIN, Texas — A recent announcement has some Austinites concerned that a staple of the Austin music scene could be facing some changes.
- Waterloo Records has been in Austin for 37 years
- It has been in current spot for 30 years
- The store owners plan to keep it open regardless
Waterloo Records confirmed Friday that the property the store sits on is changing ownership. That had some people worried about the fate of the store.
“Waterloo is more than just a record store," said Waterloo patron Jack Langworthy.
It’s been a staple of the Austin community for 37 years, and in its current spot for 30.
Photo of a person browsing at Waterloo Records on November 1, 2019 (Spectrum News)
“It provides more than just records and music and CDs, DVDs and DVRs," said Langworthy. "It provides an experience and delivers it to its customers in a way that most record stores don’t and don’t have an opportunity to.”
That’s why Waterloo’s dedicated patrons were worried when they found out the property owners were selling the land the store sits on.
“There's been a ton of people that have been very very concerned and we really appreciate that but we’re here and intend to be here," said John Kunz, President and Owner of Waterloo Records.
Kunz said he’s spoken to the new property owners, Endeavor Real Estate Group.
“They seem like they really are interested in keeping us here, and when and if the redevelopment occurs, looking to work with us to either move temporarily or permanently someplace else and then welcomed us to come back to this location afterwards," said Kunz.
He hopes Waterloo stays put, but even if it doesn’t, Waterloo won’t be closing its doors anytime soon.
“It's always been my dream that this store lives on forever, and we'll find a way to make that happen I think," said Kunz. "Change happens, and you just have to find a way to roll with it and make the best of it. That's what we'll do."
Kunz emphasized that Waterloo is by no means going out of business, and encourages everyone to continue stopping by the store to pick up great music.
In the meantime, the Waterloo Records Facebook page will continue to keep its clientele updated on any new developments.