Small Business Spotlight: Reed's Records

Looking for vinyl treasures in Elgin County? Look no further than Reed's Records, where Jason Reed has transformed a lifelong passion for music into a thriving business that brings the magic of vinyl to the heart of St. Thomas.

The Birth of Reed's Records
​Jason Reed began with a deep love for music and a knack for discovering hidden gems. "I've always loved music, ever since I can remember," Jason shares. For years, hunting for records was a cherished pastime. But in December 2022, his life took an unexpected turn. Jason decided to explore a new direction after leaving his job without immediate plans.
That spark came at a record show in St. Thomas, where Jason set up a table and unveiled his carefully curated selection of vinyl. The response was overwhelming. "I received a ton of compliments on my selection and prices," he recalls. Encouraged, he became a vendor at more shows, eventually securing a spot in the Caboose by the Jumbo monument in December 2023 as part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre's GROW program.

Curating for the St. Thomas and Elgin County Community
​Reed's Records has become a vinyl haven tailored to local tastes. Initially focused on jazz and blues, Jason pivoted to meet the demand for hard rock and new pop, the most requested genres in St. Thomas. His inventory boasts everything from rare bootlegs of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to indie-exclusive releases and colourful, splattered vinyl.
​Jason's dedication to meeting customer needs has led to memorable moments. "I had a young woman ask if I had any Roger Miller," he says. "She found a Greatest Hits album in my $1 bin and was ecstatic. Moments like that remind me why I do this."

A Small Business with a Personal Touch
In contrast to big-city record shops, Reed's Records offers a personal, community-focused experience. Jason's commitment to customer satisfaction includes free delivery within St. Thomas, a unique perk made possible by the city's accessible size. "It only takes minutes to get from one end of the city to the other without the traffic jams you'd find elsewhere," he notes.
Reed's approach to pricing also sets him apart. While inflation has driven up the cost of newly released albums, Reed keeps his markup low. "It means a lot to me when I'm complimented on my prices," he says. The joy of helping customers find the perfect album—whether it's a rare collectible or a child's dream gift—fuels his dedication.

Advice for Collectors
​Jason offers expert advice for vinyl enthusiasts, whether they're seasoned collectors or just starting:

• Catalogue your collection early: Use tools like Discogs to stay organized.
• Protect your albums: Store them in polyurethane outer sleeves and keep them vertical.
• Keep your records clean: Invest in a record cleaner and brush for debris-free playback.

Do you have a specific album in mind? Reach out to Jason via Instagram or Facebook. "If I don't have it, there's a good chance I can get it," he says.

The Vinyl Revival
Though Jason completed his six-month stay in the Caboose, R eed's Records continues to thrive online and at record shows across Southern Ontario , drawing vinyl enthusiasts from Brantford to Sarnia. But the most exciting news of all is that Reed's Records has a new home in downtown St. Thomas!  

Find Reed's Records Online
For updates on new arrivals, record show appearances, and one-of-a-kind vinyl finds, follow Reed's Records on Facebook or Instagram. Whether you're a casual listener or a dedicated collector, Jason Reed's mission is to connect you with the perfect album.

A Music-Lover's Dream in St. Thomas
Reed's Records exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit of Elgin County. By blending passion, community focus, and a personal touch, Jason Reed has turned a caboose into a hotspot for vinyl enthusiasts. While the caboose chapter may have closed, the music plays on as Jason shares his love for vinyl with St. Thomas and beyond.
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Looking for vinyl in Elgin County? Reed's Records is the name to remember—where the music never stops, and the passion for vinyl keeps spinning.

Sarah Noble, Marketing and Communications Manager, St. Thomas EDC

​Sarah is Elgin County born and raised, now proudly waving the #StThomasProud flag. With a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Guelph, she’s passionate about empowering small businesses, arts, and tourism. A former entrepreneur, photographer, and certified Experiential Tourism Coach, Sarah blends creativity with strategy to help businesses thrive and craft unforgettable experiences. When she’s not championing local growth, you’ll either find her curled up with a her cats and a book, potentially enjoying a donut or tending to her gardens—because she knows all too well that life is best lived when it's full of stories, flowers, little sweet treats, and cats.

If you go

📍445 Talbot Street, St. Thomas