Groucho's owner says record store is here to stay after escaping closure

The iconic Dundee shop was due to close in six months but a deal has been struck with the building's new landlord to extend the lease for another five years.

Author: Callum ClarkPublished 25th Feb 2019
Last updated 25th Feb 2019

The owner of an iconic record shop in Dundee says he was shocked to find out a deal had been struck to save it from closure.

Groucho's in the Nethergate was six months away from shutting down - but the building's new landlord agreed to extend its lease by five years.

Alastair Brodie has been in charge of the store for more than four decades and admits he didn't have much hope it would stay open.

"The thought of actually closing it down in August was quite formidable," he said.

"I don't have the energy to move shop these days. I'm 65, I'm getting my pension and I've got a few health problems so the thought of closure was quite daunting."

Grouchos has been based in the Nethergate for 20 years, it's sixth home in Dundee since it first opened on Perth Road in 1976.

Alastair - also known as Breeks - says it's become an institution in the city.

"That's what I keep getting told. People see it as an institution, a landmark" he said.

"There's been customers who started coming in the mid to late 70's when they were at school and they're still coming along even though they're grandparents now."