MIAMI – It’s the end of an era in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood.
The name Austin Burke has drawn in some big names through the doors over the years, like Warren Sapp, Birdman, Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O’Neal.
“Don Johnson, Burt Reynolds. I did Striptease with him. Lou Ferrigno, the Hulk, Wrestlemania, we did them all,” co-owner Kenny Sager said.
But Sager and his business partner Barry Burke are hanging up the measuring tape and fabric for good, as they are retiring.
The store, known for its discount designer suits and other clothing as much as it is for its green logo, will soon close its doors.
Its building at 2601 NW Sixth Ave., owned outright and purchased in the 1980s for $300,000, has been sold for nearly $8 million.
Burke, reflects, “Back in the late 60s, early 70s not too many people wanted to come to this area, but times change.”
The duo has been in business together for nearly five decades.
“It’s been such a great run but time is not on my side,” Sager said. “I did so much and now it’s my time.”
Burke adds, “Like fine wine, we’re aging.”
Austin Burke was Barry’s father. And if he were still alive today, Barry said he would tell him this: “You were 100% right with what you always told me.”
That was that Barry Burke could take the business to the next level.
The store will be offering discounts with a retirement sale through Jan. 30.