Home / Business and Economy / Tempe Record Store Finds New Owner
Tempe Record Store Finds New Owner
2 Jun
Summary
- Grace Records is acquiring Tempe's Double Nickels record store.
- The new owner plans to retain the Double Nickels name initially.
- The store is slated to reopen on July 11, 2026.
Darren Skarecky, owner of Grace Records, has finalized plans to purchase The Ghost of Eastside Records, also known as Double Nickels, in Tempe. This acquisition is set to be completed by June 30, 2026. Skarecky intends to maintain the Double Nickels name for the Tempe location, aiming to preserve its established connection with the local music culture.
The store is projected to reopen its doors on July 11, 2026. While renovations will occur, including new fixtures and a fresh coat of paint, the new ownership is committed to retaining much of the store's original charm and fixtures. The inventory will include Michael Pawlicki's collection, with efforts to ensure a well-stocked selection upon reopening.
Skarecky, who also owns Grace Records in Gilbert, sees this expansion as a natural progression. He plans to manage both locations, spending weekdays in Tempe and weekends in Gilbert. The Tempe store will focus more on used records, particularly punk, metal, and hip-hop, to complement Zia Records nearby.
Original owner Michael Pawlicki expressed confidence in Skarecky and store manager Brent Berg, citing their understanding of the business and their ability to sustain and improve the store. Pawlicki noted that while making money in the record business has been challenging, he believes the new owners are well-equipped for the task.
