As reported in the Buffalo News, the Washington Market is currently on the market for $275,000. The sale comes as a surprise to many who considered the market as being one of the commercial foundations for a district that has finally begun to retain loft-livers. According to partner in operations, Sarah Mahoney, the Washington Market will continue to run as a fully functioning business. Sarah expressed her mixed emotions where the sale is concerned, and stated that the sale has nothing to do with day-to-day business operations - the decision was based solely where ownership was concerned. Seeing that the lease deal secures the space until 2011, management's priority is to ramp up for a sale. That means that the caliber of the goods and services will remain a priority.
It's been three years since the Washington Market first opened their doors to a downtown market that many said was not ready for such an upscale store. Since that time the business has survived despite rumors of financial flaws. Each time those rumors surfaced, the market came back with such moves as a hi-profile patio addition, or an enhanced advertising campaign. Sarah told me that she is proud of the growth, and is happy that she could be a part of the downtown renaissance. The Washington Market has become not only a staple for those living in the neighborhood - it has become a symbol for growth in downtown Buffalo.
Washington Market | 461 Ellicott St | Buffalo, NY 14203 | (716) 362-3181