In recent news, several downtown businesses in Nantucket, including Force 5 Watersports, Jewel In the Sea, and B-ACK Yard BBQ, are facing uncertainty as the properties they operate on have been put up for sale. Despite this challenge, these establishments are determined to continue operating and serving their loyal customers.
Force 5 Watersports, a surf shop and sporting goods store that has been a staple in the community for over 40 years, is currently located at 6 Union Street. The property, owned by the Brooks family, is now on the market for $9.9 million. Jesse Brooks, the president of Force 5 Watersports, reassured customers that while the property is for sale, the business itself is not. Plans are already in motion to find a new location for the store to ensure its continued presence in the community.
The building at 6 Union Street holds historical significance as the former Ayers Guest House, boasting 16 bedrooms and a total of 8,592 square feet. Despite the potential sale of the property, Force 5 Watersports is committed to finding a new home and carrying on its legacy in Nantucket.
Just a short distance away, B-ACK Yard BBQ at 20 Straight Wharf is also facing a similar situation as the property it operates on is listed for $13.9 million. Owner Denise Corson expressed uncertainty about the future of the restaurant in the event of a sale but remains hopeful that they can continue operating at the current location. The property owner, Bernard Chiu, has been a supportive figure in the business’s journey, and Corson expressed gratitude for his mentorship and guidance.
Chiu, the founder of Upland Capital, has divested most of his Nantucket properties and now spends time on Martha’s Vineyard. The property at 20 Straight Wharf is being marketed as a profitable restaurant on the first floor with residential units above, offering a unique investment opportunity for potential buyers.
Similarly, Jewel In The Sea at 6 Straight Wharf is facing uncertainty as the property it operates on has been listed for $4.5 million. Co-owner Jack Pearson emphasized that while the building is for sale, the business itself is not. Pearson and his wife Meg have been running the jewelry store year-round since 2016 and hope to continue doing so at the current location.
These downtown businesses are not the only ones affected by property sales in Nantucket. The White Heron Theatre property at 5 North Water Street and the commercial property at 16 Federal Street are also up for sale, adding to the uncertainty for local businesses in the area. Despite the challenges, the resilience and determination of these establishments to continue serving their community are evident, showcasing the strong sense of community and support in Nantucket.
