Neon Crab on Jarvis Street closes its doors

A local business that has been part of the downtown fabric for more than three years has decided to close its doors.

Will Graham started Neon Crab Tattoos and Piercing 16 years ago and opened his fifth location in Fort Erie in July 2021.

But according to Graham, the biggest challenge was artists being there when needed.

“Given the way the economy is going, and at the same time, the proliferation of anti-work culture, it was difficult to get artists to show up to work,” he told Fort Erie Radio in an interview Thursday, a few days after he closed the shop.

“We were spending three dollars to make two dollars,” he said, explaining that Neon Crab has been sold to a new investor, but that the Fort Erie, Hamilton, and Strathroy locations will not survive the transaction.

Shops in London and Sarnia will remain open, he said.

“It’s tragic,” he admits, but said he’s thankful for loyal customers and fellow businesses during his time in Fort Erie.

“Fort Erie was wonderful, and great to us,” he said.

“They definitely welcomed us with open arms,” he added, noting that the Jarvis Street storefront is a “great location” for whoever sets up shop there next.

Stay Informed

Events, offers, contests, and breaking news, all delivered straight to your inbox.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Subscribe