Shinola Detroit opens its doors in downtown Grand Rapids

In a remarkable turn of events, the unveiling of Shinola Detroit’s newest storefront in Grand Rapids drew a crowd of a couple of hundred people on a Friday morning, marking a significant milestone for the city’s downtown retail corridor. City leaders are hailing this venture as a shining achievement that signals a positive shift in the area’s economic landscape.

Situated in the Peck Building at 40 Monroe Center St. NW, Shinola’s new store is a testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, specializing in luxury watches and leather goods. The Detroit-based retailer has secured a three-year lease for this prime location, highlighting the confidence they have in the city’s retail potential. Notably, Rockford Construction Co., the building’s owner, played a dual role in both ownership and construction, further solidifying the collaborative efforts behind this exciting project.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Tim Kelly, the President and CEO of Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI), emphasized the significance of Shinola’s presence in the downtown area. He sees the opening of this new store as a positive indicator of momentum in downtown retail, countering the challenges faced in 2023, which saw 18 storefront closures and a 20% vacancy rate, as reported by DGRI in December. However, the report also highlighted a silver lining with 15 new businesses opening since December 2022, reflecting a resilience and determination to revive the downtown scene.

Adding to the allure of this venture, the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority approved a $61,000 retail innovation grant for Shinola’s new store. This financial support underscores the community’s investment in fostering a vibrant and diverse retail environment. As Shinola gears up for its grand opening, the company is in the process of hiring, with expectations of employing around 10 individuals at the downtown location.

While the goal was to open in time for the 2023 holiday shopping season, Shinola faced challenges in sourcing materials needed for the store, causing delays in meeting their initial timeline. Despite these hurdles, the brand’s commitment to quality and attention to detail remains unwavering, ensuring that when the doors finally open, patrons can expect an immersive and exceptional retail experience.

Shinola Detroit’s Grand Rapids storefront not only symbolizes a new chapter for the brand but also serves as a beacon of hope for downtown retail, contributing to the ongoing revitalization efforts. As the city welcomes this luxury retailer with open arms, it is poised to become a destination that not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also stimulates economic growth and community engagement.