Exciting! Valletta’s D’Amato Records teases second store, asking fans to pick the spot
D’Amato Records, Malta’s iconic music store, has turned to its followers for input on a possible expansion.
In an Instagram post, the long-standing Valletta-based retailer asked music lovers to help decide where a second outlet should open, signalling that the brand may soon grow beyond its historic capital location.
“If we had to open a second location in Malta, where would you want it to be,” the post read, inviting followers to choose from Sliema, St Julian’s, Naxxar, Mosta, Iklin, San Ġwann, and Birkirkara.
Sliema and Mosta seem to be the favourite localities as of now.
Established in 1885, the record store’s management say it is the oldest in the world. Indeed, the store has survived two world wars and other crises. It has been operating for the past 137 years. During World Ward II, when Valletta came under heavy fire, D’Amato and others in the vicinity remained open, despite the dangers.
The only time in its history that the store has been forced shut is due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
D’Amato Records was first opened by Giovanni D’Amato, and has seen four generations of D’Amatos oversee the shop’s management.
Last year, well-known co-owner of the store, Anthony D’Amato, passed away at the age of 75. He owned the establishment together with brothers Joseph and George. Today, it is being run by Mr D’Amato’s son, also named Anthony, and his two cousins.
Where would you vote for?