Blockbuster closing South Tahoe location

By Kathryn Reed

South Lake Tahoe will be down to one video store in a matter of days after Blockbuster locks its doors for good.

Patrick Pearson, manager for the store, said an exact date has not been given for closing shop – it could Feb. 8 or Feb. 10.

“We had a good customer base, but not enough with the cost of rent,” Pearson said Tuesday morning. “This town, there are so many people in tight spots.”

He found out about the impending closure on Jan. 27.

Pearson said many of his customers are business owners who say they are also close to pulling the plug. On Monday, Ace Hardware closed. The Midas shop also ceased operation in January.

Pearson points to the economy, locals not having money and tourists not coming to town as reasons for the store’s demise, more than Red Box and Netflix.

Pearson, who has worked at the store for 11 years, said at one time he was the owner’s regional manager. The South Tahoe location is the last of the eight to close.

With Blockbuster’s prominent location at the Y, it will be another blemish on town with another massive building sitting empty.

Until the doors close, the five employees will be selling movies instead of renting them.