Broadway Video Help to Keep Space

Broadway Video is the last Video Store in Long Beach and Orange County! It has survived recessions, corporate competitors, changing format trends, and even today’s streaming wars. This past year, the store celebrated 42 years in business!

After managing this store for the 2 previous owners, I purchased Broadway Video 3 years ago. I wanted to see this iconic store continue. It has a diverse customer base recently enjoying many new customers of a younger age enjoying the nostalgia experience of going to a video store. We have the most outstanding selection of movies you will find anywhere; over 25,000 titles, classic and new many of which you cannot find on ANY streaming service.

Like most businesses right now, we suffered an enormous hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Broadway Video was closed for 3 full months (March 12-June 15, 2020) during the stay-at-home orders. This past December and January, we were devastated by curfews and more stay-at-home orders from Omicron. While we have received small amounts of aid, it was not enough to offset the terrible losses of no in-store customers for such an extended period. Some customers are returning along with some new customers, but it is not fast enough to save us without some financial help.

The City of Long Beach recently overlooked us for Covid Relief Grant money promised and anticipated since applying in March. I was informed in August that this money was distributed to "low-income areas of Long Beach and minorities only. I feel this was a very unfair process since Covid did not choose a zip code of skin color. We all suffered the same.

Last week I announced the closing of Broadway Video, and the in-store response has been overwhelming. I am touched by everyone's sentiments and asking us not to close.

Thanks to the community buying dvds, posters, and our shirts, our days have been good again. Many cries for us not to close, but unfortunately, due to a very slow summer, we are financially crippled and behind on our rent, utilities, and vendors.

I have exhausted all possibilities of getting financing, however I have a new business plan for Broadway Video and could still be there with your help.

I have added Art from local artists and an incredible selection of posters. My extended plan includes wine tasting and live entertainment featuring movie nights.

If you love this store, now is your chance to help. Please click the link below to donate today!

All funds generated through this campaign will be used exclusively to pay back rent, vendors, and the restructuring of the business necessary for it to continue.

Sincerely,

Steve Tsepelis

Owner