Beloved Brooklyn hardware store closing its doors: 'At Crest, you were family'

WILLIAMSBURG, Brooklyn (PIX11) – The beloved Crest Hardware & Urban Garden Center in Brooklyn is bidding farewell after more than 60 years in business, the store announced on Tuesday.

The owners of the store, a cornerstone of the Williamsburg neighborhood, decided to close because they were unable to renew their commercial lease.

“Sadly, our property partners did not grant us any opportunity to renew our lease,” said Joseph Franquinha, the owner of the hardware store. “They instead made the choice to sell the property in which Crest exists. The decision to not relocate reflects broader trends of increasing commercial rents and the challenges of maintaining a small business in a rapidly changing urban landscape, forcing us to make the difficult decision to permanently close our doors.” 

Since its establishment in 1962, the store has remained a family business. The original owner, Manny Franquinha, became well-known for his commitment to customer service and community improvement. His son, Joseph Franquinha, has managed the store in recent years.

“I have so many personal stories that include Crest after living on the next block behind them for almost 20 years, 1997- 2015,” wrote Cindy Thompsen on the store’s official Facebook page. “From picking up extremely heavy bags of soil to fill in the holes my dog dug in the back yard to getting a new key made for a new roommate, fixing my own running toilet, or getting spring plants. At Crest, you were family. Always.”

Crest has hosted corporate events, been featured in films and television shows, and hosted wedding ceremonies. The store also stood out to Brooklyn artists who would frequent Crest for art supplies and for how it utilizes its space for art galleries. 

“💔Love you guys💔,” wrote New York Nico on their Instagram.

Crest's last day of business will be Aug. 30.