The Dead Zone: Business for Sale

Commercial Realty Advisors, Inc. is pleased to announce the availability of The Dead Zone, a beloved gift shop located at 1196 Rt 28, South Yarmouth, MA. The iconic business, owned and operated by Patty Martin, is being offered for sale for $279,000 for the first time in its 35 years of operation.

A History in Rhode Island and Chatham

Since its inception in June of 1989, The Dead Zone has been a beloved staple for fans of ‘GRATEFUL DEAD, REGGAE, AND COOL HIPPIE MERCHANDISE’ as the vintage wooden sign out front states. Initially launched in Lincoln, Rhode Island, the store quickly outgrew its first location. By the end of 1989, owner Patty Martin decided to return to Cape Cod, setting up shop in Chatham, where the business thrived for 15 years. Reflecting on the Chatham years, Google reviewer Thomas O’Neill shares, “I used to flood the shop when Patty was in Chatham, with my buddies as a snot nose in the 90’s to peruse Dead Tapes! We probably drove her nuts. I live in New York now and still stop by once a year to check it out. A brick-and-mortar ‘Mom’ shop that honors the Dead is few & far between. Any ‘head’ should make it a point to stop by and pay their respects.”

Currently in South Yarmouth

For the past 15 years, The Dead Zone has called Yarmouth home. Situated in the Hearth and Kettle Plaza on Route 28 in South Yarmouth, the store has been catering to a diverse customer base, particularly appealing to the “baby boomer” generation who experienced the hippie era. The shop spans 800 square feet and boasts central heating, air conditioning, two bathrooms, and a combo dressing room. Its prominent visibility from the road, complemented by a 10-foot lighted sign and scenic lake view, attracts high foot traffic, including bus tours and tourists from a nearby hotel.

The staff are friendly and helpful, and the store is well-organized and packed with all your favorite things. Bring the whole family for a new T-shirt or crystal necklace—there is something for everyone! There is no place like The Dead Zone.

Operating year-round, the store enjoys a flexible lease that permits closure during winter weeks if desired by the new owner. The business experiences peak sales during the summer months and performs well during the shoulder and holiday seasons.

Tourists and locals alike leave glowing reviews, such as “I recently visited the store while on vacation and I got the cutest sunglasses along with two crystal bracelets. It was my kind of store” and “The Dead Zone is an iconic & historic piece of the Cape Cod experience.” Even if you’re not a Dead Head yourself, this shop remains a ‘must visit’ on Cape Cod tourist guides. With the owner ready to retire, the Commercial Realty Advisors, Inc. team is seeking a new owner to carry on this legendary location.

“Feeling blessed,” says Martin, reflecting on the store’s enduring presence and the relationships built over the years. “I have enjoyed the ride and being a part of such a wonderful community of Deadheads. And taping and sharing the music was so much fun!! I was happy to do it! We saved some rainforest land back then with the donations for taping!! Thank you and everyone for your support through the years! I wouldn’t have been able to do it without you!” Next time you’re in the area, make sure to drop in and see what makes The Dead Zone a cherished part of the Cape Cod community.

The sale includes all equipment, physical assets, location, signage, furnishings, fixtures, leasehold improvements, trade name, and proprietary marketing materials. The owner is willing to provide two weeks of orientation and training. Inventory can be purchased at wholesale cost.

For more information regarding the buying, selling or leasing of Commercial Property, please contact Commercial Realty Advisors, Inc. at 508-862-9000. Commercial Realty Advisors, Inc. has been servicing the South Shore and Cape Cod, MA since 1999.