Business
BY KAMERYN GRIESSER
John Rydman, Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods president, spent over 12 years driving around town, scouting out the perfect location for a store that could serve Central Austin residents. Once the Goodwill at 914 N. Lamar Blvd. closed in 2023, Rydman saw an opportunity to create a liquor store that was unique both inside and out. Now, after months of construction, the North Lamar store is set to open mid-October, marking the Houston-based brand’s 16th Austin location. The store will feature artwork around the outside of the building. The backstory When Rydman bought the building, it was covered in the work of local stencil artist Federico Archuleta, who was originally commissioned by Cheapo Records. “People had done gra ti on top of his artwork, and I thought, ‘This stu underneath is interest- ing, I’d like to retain it,’” Rydman said. “So we hunted down [Archuleta] and told him to come back and basically draw whatever he wants. ... We’ve never done that before, but to me, that’s very Austin.” Rydman said the mural will include Spec’s signature rabbit motif throughout while paying homage to Archuleta’s original work. What’s in store Rydman said he is also excited about the new store’s proximity to downtown. “It’s going to make us a better source for all the people in downtown who want delivery options,” Rydman said. “It’ll become the hub for people who use the Spec’s app and online ordering.” With a younger, mixed customer base of college students and professional mixologists, Rydman said the new store will feature a wider selection of goods, including Delta THC products, dry fruits for cocktails and bar accessories. Additionally, the store will o er its usual variety of wines, liquors, beers, cigars and gourmet food selections. Quote of note “I’ve always said retail is detail,” said Rydman, the self-proclaimed “vision-keeper” of the Spec’s brand. “We don’t cookie-cutter our stores; they’re all di erent based on the local feel and demographics.” Spec’s to expand with 16th Austin location on North Lamar Boulevard
In 1962, Carroll B. “Spec” Jackson and his wife, Carolynn, [not pictured] opened the original Spec’s in Houston. In 1971, the Jackson’s daughter, Lindy, [left] and her husband, John Rydman, [middle] joined the business. In 1995, Lisa Rydman-Lindsey joined the business, Jackson’s granddaughter. From left to right: Lindy Rydman, John Rydman, Lisa Rydman-Lindsey.
PHOTOS COURTESY SPEC’S WINE, SPIRITS & FINER FOODS
Local stencil artist Federico Archuleta was asked to come and restore his work featuring Spec’s signature rabbit motif.
After months of construction, the North Lamar store is set to open this fall and will be the 16th Austin location.
Looking ahead Rydman said he hopes the decades-old business remains a family a air in years to come. Already, his daughter Lisa Rydman-Lindsey leads the company’s marketing and charitable e orts, with his grandsons following close behind. As for plans to open locations outside the Lone Star State, Rydman said “it’s not out of the question.”
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914 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin www.specsonline.com
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