Rufus Bartell has brought a distinct sense of style to Detroit's historic Avenue of Fashion with his store,
Simply Casual, on Livernois.
The graduate of Western Michigan University's school of business lives in the University District neighborhood, not far from his clothing stores -- Simply Casual and
ShoeHouseBoulevard. He employees 10 people at his stores, is looking for interns and of course, customers.
Describe your business in two sentences or less?Simply Casual and
ShoeHouseBoulevard are lifestyle stores. We cater to a cross mix of customers who are travelers, athletes, entertainers, salespersons, city officials and overall taste makers who are fashion forward.
Why did you decide to set up shop in Detroit?I love the excitement of the urban environment. I love the energy. Furthermore, Detroit is under served.
What are some of the advantages to doing business here?The advantage of during business Detroit is the current cost of real estate -- the ability to get prime locations at a fraction of what it would cost in other markets.
What do you see in Detroit that other people who live outside the city don't? Most people who live outside Detroit don't utilize the entire city. Oftentimes visitors would only visit downtown, while there are so many hidden jewels throughout the city. For example, the Avenue of Fashion where Simply Casual clothing store is located on Livernois. This is a historic street located in a historic neighborhood, that's making a serious comeback. However, it goes almost unnoticed by people who live outside of the city because of misperceptions and lack of press. Once Detroit is truly promoted as a city that is for all, by all, to be enjoyed by all, then, many of those concerns will began to die.
What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about opening a business in the Motor City?My advice for new businesses coming into the city is to find out what's needed and fill that need. Detroit has tremendous opportunities in spite of the current economic conditions. Make sure your presentation is second to none (the look and feel of your business). Learn the political landscape by getting involved and volunteering.
If you could change one thing about Detroit, what would it be?If I could change one thing about Detroit's business climate, I would re-build and re-populate the city through small businesses. I would give small businesses carte blanche. I would serve and protect my small business class at "all cost." Small business generation would be my top priority. I believe small business development has the single greatest return on investment than any other city business priority. You show me any thriving city, and I will show you a city where small business is a top priority.
Source: Rufus Bartell, owner of Simply Casual and ShoeHouseBoulevard
Writer: Jon Zemke
Know an entrepreneur to feature in Model D? If so, send an e-mail to Jon Zemke.
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