A Castro consignment store abruptly shut its doors Monday.
Worn Out West 2nd Generation, the iconic Castro consignment shop located at 2352 Market Street, was closed February 5, with a note posted on the door.
Established in 1980, Worn Out West sold a wide range of vintage clothing, leather, rubber, uniforms, and other items. Worn Out West was originally located at 582 Castro Street, but moved to the Market Street location several years ago after the Castro building was sold. The "2nd Generation" moniker was added to the store's name in conjunction with its move to Market Street.
"We are deeply saddened by our decision to close Worn Out West 2nd Generation and move everything into storage until which time we can figure out our next steps," owner Mike Holland said in a statement. "Worn Out West has served our community for 40-plus years but for the past few years has deeply struggled. We did our very best but have exhausted all means. We need time to regroup and figure out next steps. We ask for patience and understanding as we are faced with this sad and difficult time. We have loved serving our community for 40-plus years and thank you for all the support and love over these years."
Holland added, via email, that people who had given him merchandise to sell on consignment would see their items returned to them.
"Everything is in storage but we will need some time," he said. "They just need to email us and be patient."
The store had established long-standing relationships with many groups, supporting the rubber community, Bay Area gay rodeo, and the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus.
Holland pointed out that a decline in sales, combined with the high rents in San Francisco, were the factors that forced his hand.
"Sales have declined steadily over the past few years and rents are high to begin with in the Castro," he said. "Our business did well around the leather event months but struggled with all the other months. This past year we saw a tremendous drop in sales and have exhausted all of our means to stay open at this time."
At the store's Yelp page, most of the reviews were positive, with many customers praising the good service and the availability of leather goods. Holland can be reached at [email protected].