The Costumer to Relocate Retail Outlet in Schenectady
The theatrical supply business will move its shop to State Street in 2027, shifting foot traffic for downtown operators.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The Costumer, a theatrical supply business founded in 1917, is set to relocate its retail outlet from Mohawk Harbor to 415 State Street in 2027. The company will continue operating at its current site through the 2026 holiday season.
Why it matters
The relocation aims to capitalize on proximity to the Jay Street Marketplace and four local theaters, potentially shifting foot traffic for the downtown retail corridor. This move highlights how long-standing operators leverage high-density cultural districts to drive customer engagement.
The Costumer, which ships 50,000 theatrical costumes annually, will move its retail operations into a former CVS space in 2027. The project relies on grant-funded renovations to transition into the new 415 State Street site.
The players
The Costumer
A theatrical supply company founded in 1917 that manages the annual distribution of over 50,000 costumes.
The details
The Costumer will sublet the former CVS storefront located in the Center City building, shifting away from its current Mohawk Harbor premises. While the retail front moves to State Street, the company will maintain its established headquarters on Barrett Street. Renovations required to outfit the space for costume inventory and retail display will be supported by grant funding.
Timeline
1917: The Costumer was founded.
2026 holiday season: The retail outlet remains at Mohawk Harbor.
2027: The retail outlet relocates to 415 State Street.
Market Landscape
The move aligns with the broader revitalization of downtown Schenectady retail districts, reflecting a trend of specialty retailers consolidating in high-traffic cultural hubs. This shift mirrors other recent commercial transitions toward the Jay Street Marketplace area.
Operators in the downtown district should monitor the impact of this move on holiday foot traffic patterns through the 2026 season. Those planning similar facility changes should note the company's use of grant-funded renovations to manage the capital costs of the move.
The takeaway
Businesses looking to relocate should prioritize proximity to established demand centers like the four theaters and Jay Street Marketplace to sustain long-term relevance. Review your company's current site lease and renewal terms to identify if a similar move could align with your future growth targets.
Further reading
For more updates on local storefront changes, visit Schenectady Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NEWS10 ABC.
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