FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (BizBeat) — After 40 years of being a staple in downtown Fredericksburg, Beck’s Antiques & Books has made a significant shift by moving its operations online. Bill and Susan Beck, who started their business in 1973 with antiques shows, opened a physical location in the early 1980s and later purchased the building at 708 Caroline Street in 1987, where they operated for nearly four decades.
Specializing in late-18th- and early-19th-century antiques from England and France, Beck’s has offered a diverse array of items, including furniture, ceramics, silver, metalwork, jewelry, rugs, and art. However, Bill Beck, who also served as Fredericksburg’s mayor from 2000 to 2004, has noted significant changes in the antiques market.
Changing Market Dynamics
In recent years, the number of drop-in shoppers has declined markedly. Beck observed that serious collectors now often find what they need online, eliminating the necessity of visiting a physical store. He recounted a striking example: on the Saturday before Easter, his store saw around 100 visitors but generated only $3 in sales. Conversely, a customer placed an $8,200 order over the phone on the same day.
These changing market dynamics, combined with the couple’s desire for a different lifestyle as they age, prompted the decision to pivot to an online model.
New Beginnings
This past summer, the Becks sold their longtime building, which also served as their residence, to Joy Crump and Beth Black, the owners of Foode. The new owners have yet to announce their plans for the property. Earlier this year, the Becks also sold the Pump House property at 301 Sophia Street.
The couple has relocated to a home on Twin Lake Drive in Fredericksburg. Their new basement provides space to store much of their inventory and photograph items for sale on their website, BecksAntiques.com. Additionally, they have rented storage space outside their home to accommodate their needs.
Commitment to the Community
Bill Beck emphasized their commitment to Fredericksburg, stating that they loved their time in the downtown area and wanted to remain connected to the city. Despite stepping back from a traditional storefront, he is not ready to retire. His passion for sourcing quality antiques and interacting with customers continues to drive him as he embraces this new chapter in their business.
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