Rumors are swirling around the potential closure of all remaining Sam Ash stores unless a buyer steps in to rescue the iconic music retail chain. Founded nearly a century ago in 1924, Sam Ash has been a cornerstone of the American musical instrument retail scene, boasting the title of the largest chain of family-owned music stores in the United States.

While an official statement from Sam Ash is yet to confirm these rumors, social media posts from purported employees hint at an imminent shutdown. Reports indicate that company leadership may have been informed about the planned closures, sparking concern among employees who fear for their job security.

The speculation gained traction after the closure of 18 out of 44 stores across the US was announced in March, including the historic Clearwater, Florida branch. Signs proclaiming “Liquidation Sale!” and “Everything Must Go!” appeared in windows, catching employees off guard with the sudden news.

On online platforms like Reddit and Facebook, alleged employees lamented the situation, with one claiming that messages had been circulated among company leadership without informing frontline staff. Another expressed disappointment at the loss of a century-old institution in the guitar world.

Sam Ash underwent massive difficulties after the passing of Sammy Ash, the company’s COO, who died of melanoma in September last year.