I was concerned several years ago when Raleigh’s only downtown grocery closed at Seaboard Station but pleasantly surprised when the Phydeaux pet store moved in. I normally don’t get attached to pet stores but I absolutely love Phydeaux. I feel like they know me, and that they are happy to be part of the community.
I was concerned when news spread last month that Phydeaux would soon be leaving Seaboard over concerns with its lease arrangement. Phydeaux is leaving in September for new digs at the current Briggs Hardware building at Atlantic Ave and Six Forks. Phydeaux is purchasing the building from the Scruggs family.
It’s my understanding the rent at Seaboard isn’t cheap, which is amusing considering that a mere ten years ago the place was a ghost town. Phydeaux is set to save a bundle in buying the Briggs building, so much that it was an absolute no-brainer for them to move.
I’m not sure why Trademark (and Peace University) would want to let such a great tenant go. I figure I visit Phydeaux more often than any other business at Seaboard. Probably 80% of my trips to Seaboard are to Phydeaux.
Phydeaux was only offered a two year lease. Why? Who knows? What plans does Trademark and Peace University have for the space? When Peace bought the property in 2013 neighbors had fears that the school would replace its shops with dorms or baseball fields. Trademark’s Billie Redmond says there’s no plans for that.
But for how long will that be true?