End of an Era: Sears Flatbush Store Closing Becomes the Last in NYC

Sears has announced it is closing its Flatbush location on Nov. 24, representing the first Sears to open and the last to close in New York City.

The store was first opened in the art deco building along Bedford Ave. and Beverly Rd. in 1932 and has been a staple for generations of Brooklyn shoppers. But as shopping habits have changed and with Sears bankruptcy filing in 2018, the end is near for the beloved store.

The buildings faade and iconic 100-ft tower will be protected by its landmark status.

According to THE CITY, Sears is now plastered with Everything Must Go! Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment for Sale, and other sale signage. It is also advertising for jobs to help with the store closing.

60-year-old clothing designer Lorna Phillips, who is originally from Jamaica and has lived in Flatbush for 38 years, told THE CITY the closure was a major loss for the community. When we lose good things, it becomes heart-rending.

Natalie Acosta, also a local resident, said her and her 7-year-old daughter would miss the affordable prices. I got her winter stuff, a whole ski suit, for literally $3, Acosta said.

Acosta said she had seen the store go from a bustling business center in the neighborhood to one struggling to attract customers over the seven years she had lived there, adding she was surprised it had even lasted this long.

I would love if it were booming like it was before, because its a great department store.

She said she hoped the space would be taken by something that benefited the community, such as a movie theatre -- while her daughter said she would prefer a toy store.

If theyre gonna bring back stores, bring something more classy or something that will still serve the neighborhood in a good way, Acosta said.

Transformco, a firm that acquired Sears assets, told THE CITY the land could be redeveloped in a number of ways. Scott Carr, president of real estate for Transformco, said in a statement: We intend to reinvigorate and maximize the value of the real estate to meet the needs of the Brooklyn market.