Midtown East Institution Sam Flax Closing After 95 Years

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It's not a good year for art supply stores. The Commercial Observer is reporting that Sam Flax, which also sells gifts, stationery, and toys at 900 Third Avenue, will be closing for good on Christmas Eve after 95 years in business.

Sales have reportedly been down at the two-level store, as is staff—one employee said that several others have quit in anticipation of the closure. They're vacating their lease 10 years early, where they're paying $100 per square foot (the address will likely be marketed for double that price). The teensy silver lining? Most items are heavily marked down right now, in case you need some last-minute supplies.
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