Whimsical store in Lafayette, running for 48 years, shuts down operations.
Lafayette, CA - After nearly five decades, the well-loved clock shop, Clocks Etc., situated in Fiesta Square shopping center, has officially shut its doors. The store's signage has been taken down, leaving the storefront vacant.
Established in 1976, the store was known for its eclectic charm and extensive collection of clocks. Owners Scott and Wendy recently announced their decision to retire, yearning for a slower pace of life.
The closure of Clocks Etc., a beloved icon of downtown Lafayette, signifies the end of an era for the local community. The shop started in a 400-square-foot space before expanding to its current 2,600-square-foot location in 1999. Despite the closure, clock repair services will continue at an off-site location under Scott's guidance.
A farewell message posted in the store's window thanked the Lafayette community for their decades of support and encouraged locals to continue supporting small businesses and contributing to the community.
Residents can still enjoy new small businesses in the area, including Little Seeds, El Talpense, and The Breakfast Club, ensuring the spirit of downtown Lafayette remains alive.
Lafayette, California, has a rich history as a small-business-friendly town that began experiencing growth following the Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. The city has fostered a thriving suburban community, known for its unique local shops, restaurants, and service providers.
The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce has long supported local entrepreneurship through initiatives such as 15 years of collaboration with SCORE, an organization offering free small business guidance. Community efforts have focused on collaboration and shared investment in local development.
Recent efforts to promote Lafayette's small business sector include the new online business directory, "Experience Lafayette." This directory aims to highlight local restaurants, retail shops, and service providers, boosting their online presence.
Despite these efforts, small businesses across the country, including Lafayette, have faced ongoing challenges, such as economic fluctuations, changes in consumer habits, and periodic crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. While California's Mortgage Relief Program and rent relief initiatives have offered support, they mainly target housing and may not exclusively benefit commercial enterprises.
As of May 2025, no publicized list of recent closures or businesses currently closing in Lafayette could be found in the available sources. However, the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce continues to focus on supporting existing businesses and attracting new ones.
In summary, Lafayette, CA, holds a resilient small business community, supported by local organizations and ongoing promotional efforts. Despite challenges faced by small businesses nationwide, Lafayette hopes to sustain and grow its local economy.
Residents might be interested in exploring new businesses that offer various goods and services, such as lifestyle products at Little Seeds, authentic Mexican cuisine at El Talpense, or breakfast options at The Breakfast Club, continuing to support the unique small business sector in downtown Lafayette. The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce also encourages shopping for home-and-garden items, possibly finding unique pieces to complement one's lifestyle.
