After 41 years of running Picker’s Alley, Sarnia’s beloved retailer of musical instruments, owner Mark Dixon has announced his retirement.
At the age of 65, Dixon says, “It is time for me to enter the next part of my life. This job is a dream for a lot of people, and this business has been a pleasure to be a part of, and Sarnia and Lambton County have treated me wonderfully since I started here in 1984.”
On March 17, Long & McQuade Musical Instruments Ltd. will move in and take over his store. It will be the 107th store for the national chain. Founded in 1957 in Toronto, the Long & McQuade company is 100% owned by the Long family.
“I’m pretty sure for Long & McQuade this is going to be one of their best outlets,” Dixon says.
In regards to selling his independent business to Canada’s largest chain of musical instrument retailers, Dixon says that “it was really the only route.” He says it has been almost 30 years since anyone else locally has shown interest in buying his business.
He also has no desire for “a long and drawn-out closing sale.”
“It would be a terrible legacy if the building was boarded up. I can always drive by the Long & McQuade and know it’s there because of me.”
“When I first came to Sarnia there were seven music stores, including Picker’s Alley,” recalls Dixon. “They were all little mom and pop stores. Everyone had 15-20 guitars and nobody was doing a real job of it. I really felt there was something that could be done because this is such a great musical town.”
Donovan Woods, the Juno-nominated folk and country musician, born and raised in Sarnia, bought his first guitar at Picker’s Alley, Dixon is proud to say. Other famous Canadian musicians he recalls coming to his store include Kim Mitchell, Johnnie Dee of Honeymoon Suite, and Chris Hadfield.
“Not to mention the very many talented musicians who have played in Sarnia in the taverns and pubs over the years,” he adds. “It’s unbelievable the amount of hidden talent there is. It’s a great town for that.”
“I appreciate everyone who’s come in the store over the years,” Dixon says. “We know a lot of them by first name, we know their families. It’s going to be really sad when I finally have to walk out of there. It’s going to be an emotional day.”
Dixon extends his thanks to all current and former employees. He especially thanks Tony Zangolli who has worked at Picker’s Alley since 1991.
“His dedication, loyalty, commitment, and friendship has always been treasured,” says Dixon, “along with his pride in workmanship, helpful manner, and great sense of humour.”
Tony has been offered a continuing position with Long & McQuade.
“Tony and I look forward to speaking with everyone as we wind things down over the next couple of months and prepare for the transition,” he says. “Thank you, Sarnia and Lambton County, it's been a blast!”