I don’t think Allentown could have scored any better than it recently did with the addition of Rick Cycle Shop (see relocation story). Every time I go by the corner of Franklin and Allen there are bikers congregating both inside and outside. The activity has totally transformed that end of the block into a very fun urban place to be. When we stopped in on Saturday we could barely maneuver around the place because all of the commotion. Granted they are still unpacking some boxes, but because of the dramatic increase in activity, they may never get the chance to fully unpack.
If you ever had the chance to experience the former Rick Bikes location, then you will surely see what a difference this sizeable store makes on the merchandise layout. Despite the overwhelming buzz inside, there is still a feeling of openness, unlike the small and cluttered feel that the old shop had. I asked Tom Azzarella, owner of Rick Cycle, about the increase in activity and even he seemed stunned with the development. To have such an immediate impact on a neighborhood is really exciting. I’m sure that the move was not an easy one, and there is no guaranty when it comes to customer devotion. I’m happy to say that both old and new customers are psyched to see this cycle shop making such a splash right out of the gates.
When Neo Gifts announced that they were leaving the block, many neighbors worried if any business would be ‘big’ enough to fill their shoes. I guess the Neo move was a win-win situation. We now have Neo on Elmwood, East End Salon in its new home with Rick Cycle, the Falafel Bar opening a second location down the street… now can we get the former East End Salon filled? It’s a 650 sq.’ space that has already been fixed up by Patrick Monfort, owner of East End Salon (send me an email if you’re interested). Allentown is certainly heating up for summer… at both ends too.
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