Popular bootmaker Frye Company taking over former Charley’s spot on Newbury Street

By Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff

The Frye Company, a popular bootmaker, plans to open a three-story flagship store on Newbury Street next spring in the space formerly occupied by Charley’s restaurant. Frye’s will take over 11,000 square feet at the corner of Newbury and Gloucester Streets. The new store -- only Frye’s second US location -- will feature the brand’s leather footwear and handbags, along with a lounge for special events and vintage trunk shows. It also will provide private fit specialists and services for boot personalization.

The Frye Company, founded by John A. Frye in 1863, claims to be the nation’s oldest continuously operating footwear label.

Andy LaGrega, a principal of The Wilder Companies, which represented the ownership group of 284 Newbury St., said the firm negotiated with numerous restaurants and retailers over the past six months.

Charley’s closed Sunday after its was unable to negotiate a new lease for the space.

“We had many, many restaurants that wanted to be there and many retailers,” Wilder said. “We wanted to be selective because this is an iconic building and we want an iconic brand like the Frye Company that will be there for the long term.”

Jenn Abelson can be reached at abelson@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @jennabelson.