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Phase 1 to close down

Photo by Tamell SimonsCalling it quits: Phase 1 landmark video store located Collector's Hill South Shore Smith's is closing due to lack of business

There is bad news for Bermuda’s most discerning film buffs.Collector’s Hill video rental store Phase 1 is closing its doors after decades in business.“It’s just not viable anymore,” owner Duane Dennis said. “Business has been dropping off.”He, like other video rental business owners, have faced tough competition from digital cable TV and internet sites like Netflix where people can download TV and movies.Mr Dennis said the challenging economy has not helped business either, and in addition, he said he is burned out on the business.He bought the business - known for its library of classic and hard-to-find titles - from long-time owner Edmund Marshall about 12 years ago.Mr Dennis said he was not sure the exact day he’ll roll the end credits, but said it will be soon.He has listed the building for sale and said he already has had interest from prospective buyers.Phase 1 has two full-time staff and one part-time employee.From now until closing, Mr Dennis said his full inventory of some 20,000 DVDs will go on sale.He is selling the older and classic movies for $5 and the newer ones for $10.

Photo by Tamell SimonsCalling it a day: Phase 1 landmark video store located Collector's Hill South Shore Smiths is closing due to lack of business