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Public-Private Partnership Gives Entrepreneurs, Downtown a Boost for the Holidays
PORTLAND, Ore. – Today, two pop-up shops were unveiled in vacant retail storefronts along Morrison Street for the holiday season. The pop-up shops are a result of the Downtown Retail Strategy, an initiative launched by Mayor Sam Adams last year. Local artists and designers have the unique opportunity to temporarily ‘set up shop’ in the core retail district, sell their work and even design right in the space. Thanks to the property owners, the retail spaces are free to the artists and designers.
“These pop-up stores are a smart and innovative approach to using available retail space downtown," said Mayor Sam Adams. "Local artists and entrepreneurs benefit, shoppers benefit, and our downtown core becomes more vibrant during the vital holiday shopping season.”
“The pop-up shops are a win-win-win and are the result of partnership between the city and business,” said Charles Wilhoite, chair of the Portland Business Alliance and managing director of Willamette Management Associates. “We are helping entrepreneurs grow their business, we are bringing even more unique products to downtown and we are showcasing these properties to prospective tenants.”
The Portland Business Alliance, Portland Development Commission, Downtown Marketing Initiative, Downtown Retail Advocate and local design consultant Tad Savinar partnered with property owners, Downtown Development Group and the City of Portland, to enhance the signature retail district along Yamhill and Morrison with the pop-up shops. Vizwerks Design Studio donated their design expertise to set up the stores and source fixtures and other needs.
In addition to supporting local talent and emerging entrepreneurs, the shops will also allow property owners to showcase their space for future tenants.
Two other stores will open before Thanksgiving in the signature retail district on Yamhill and Morrison streets. The two shops opening today are:
Workroom 719
- Showcasing artwork, clothing, jewelry and accessories from six artists.
- Watch the artists design and create their merchandise
- Located at 719 SW Morrison St. (formerly See’s Candies space)
Flurry
- Showcasing jewelry and clothing for men and women from multiple designers.
- Presented by Portland Fashion Synergy
- Located at 401 SW Morrison St. (formerly Shoe Pavilion space)
