For Immediate Release 

Washington, D.C. – December 11, 2024 – Writeside Holdings, LLC, the parent company of Retro 1951, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Fahrney’s Pens, Inc., Washington D.C.’s nearly 96-year-old iconic stationery store. The acquisition will be completed on January 1, 2025, in partnership with the Sullivan family, who have cherished and upheld Fahrney’s legacy as a haven for writing enthusiasts for generations. The Writeside Holdings team will work closely with the Sullivan family during the transition to ensure a seamless handover that respects the heritage of this beloved institution.

Under this new leadership, Drew Brown, formerly of Goulet Pens, has been hired as the President of Fahrney’s Pens. With his deep industry experience and passion for fine writing instruments, Brown will guide Fahrney’s into its next phase, while preserving the values and traditions that have made it a treasured fixture in the D.C. community and beyond.

Writeside Holdings, LLC (formerly known as Retro Rangers, LLC) is owned by Jeff Velker, Adam Finer, and Joe Corona. The trio purchased the renowned fine writing brand Retro 1951 in January 2021 and have since been committed to expanding their influence in the stationery and fine writing industries. Jeff Velker expressed gratitude to the Sullivan family, saying, “We deeply appreciate the Sullivan family’s ongoing support during this transition. Their dedication and care for Fahrney’s over the years has been remarkable, and we are honored to build upon their legacy.” Adam Finer added, “We are thrilled to welcome Drew Brown to the Fahrney’s team. His expertise and enthusiasm for the industry make him the perfect leader to take Fahrney’s into its next century.”

Retro 1951 and Fahrney’s Pens will remain separate companies, each with its own distinct identity and focus. Fahrney’s will continue to operate independently, dedicated to serving its loyal customers and writing community.

The acquisition will usher in exciting improvements to the Fahrney’s shopping experience, including the launch of an updated website planned for late 2025, in-store events, and the addition of new premium brands.

In a statement, the Sullivan family shared, “Fahrney’s has been part of our family for generations, and it has been our honor to serve the D.C. community and writing enthusiasts from all over the world. As we pass the torch, we’re confident that the Writeside team and Drew Brown will respect the legacy of Fahrney’s while enhancing the experience for future generations. This is an exciting new chapter, and we’re grateful to see Fahrney’s continue to grow and thrive.”

“Our goal with Fahrney’s is to honor the history and essence of the brand while modernizing the shopping experience,” said Drew Brown. “These changes will take time, but we’re committed to preserving Fahrney’s iconic status in the writing world for generations to come. We deeply appreciate the continued support of our customers as we embark on this exciting journey together.”

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About Fahrney’s Pens, Inc. Founded in 1929, Fahrney’s Pens, Inc. is a storied stationery store in Washington, D.C., known for its premium selection of fine writing instruments and office supplies. For nearly a century, Fahrney’s has served as a beloved destination for those passionate about the art of writing.

About Writeside Holdings, LLC Writeside Holdings, LLC is the parent company of Retro 1951, Inc., focusing on growing its influence in the stationery industry through new markets, acquisitions, and partnerships that celebrate the craftsmanship and legacy of fine writing instruments.