Sam the Record Man, a mainstay in downtown Halifax for more than 20 years, is closing down Tuesday.

Co-owner Bobby Sniderman, son of founder Sam Sniderman, said sales at the store on Barrington Street are down, which he blames on music downloading.

"It's a responsible and necessary business decision given the circumstances in the industry," said Sniderman, who has been running the enterprise with his brother for the past five years.

"We were really optimistic about continuing the store and making a contribution to the community, and it's a difficult decision for us to have to make."

Sam's stocked hard-to-find jazz, blues and folk titles, as well as imported recordings.

It has also been lauded over the years for promoting local musicians. Just last weekend, Sam's tied with CD Plus for retailer of the year at the East Coast Music Awards.

Sniderman said the 13 employees will get severance pay and a letter of reference.

The Sam the Record Man flagship store in Toronto will remain open, along with two other independently operated Sam's stores in Sarnia and Belleville, Ont.