CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Record and gift shop, Budget Tapes & Records closed down operations on Sunday after over half a century serving the Charleston area.
The Kanawha County business first opened its doors in the 1970s and has since been a go-to source for physical media and music merchandise throughout Southern West Virginia.
Owners Dave and Priscilla Pope announced the news last week, noting that the last day of business would be Sunday, March 3, 2024, and citing retirement as the reason for the change, which took many patrons by surprise.
“After 52 years, we’re retiring,” read a statement from the establishment. “THANK YOU to our customers for loving Budget all these years!”
Along with its eye-catching merchandise, Budget Tapes & Records developed a reputation for its top-notch customer service and knowledgeable employees, one of which was longtime manager John Nelson, who has become something of a local icon over the years.
“This news hit with the same weight as hearing a lifelong friend has passed,” one patron said of the development. “I don’t recall a trip to Charleston that didn’t include stopping here.”
The impact of the shop’s departure has been so immense that local residents have organized a candlelight vigil in honor of the establishment, set to take place the evening of Monday, March 4, 2024, beginning at 7:00pm.
The iconic “Budget Tapes & Records” sign has since been designated as historically significant, according to Oak Hill Mayor, Charles H. Briscoe, who reached out to LOOTPRESS in light of the news.
“Budget Tapes & Records in Kanawha City has closed after [50]-plus years. The founder/owner, Priscilla (Roles) Pope grew up partially in Gatewood, Fayette County, [WV],” said Briscoe. “Their sign has been designated historical.”
Budget Tapes & Records made an indelible mark on the Charleston area over their multiple decades of service and will be greatly missed by a great many loyal patrons.Additional information on Monday evening’s candlelight vigil for Budget Tapes & Records can be found here.
