Ashvegas reader: Urban Outfitters to hold grand opening Jan. 28

Jason Sandford January 4, 2010

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

An Ashvegas reader says that Urban Outfitters will hold the grand opening of its downtown Asheville store on Jan. 28. I haven’t confirmed this information. Can anyone confirm?

That’s big news for Urban Outfitters’ friends and foes, alike. Friends can’t wait to shop the new retailer. Foes are worried that opening of Urban Outfitters means an open door to more big chains, which will push out small, locally owned businesses and generally detract from the eclectic downtown shopping scene.

Guess we’ll watch and see what happens.

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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4 Comments

molly proctor January 24, 2010

the fact that urban outfitters was allowed to infiltrate the center of downtown asheville is shocking and, I believe, will be detrimental to many independent clothing shops. one of the amazing things about asheville is the way local businesses are able to thrive, and the way people support them. when you walk down the streets of downtown, people have style and individuality. 20 and 30 somethings aren’t all walking around in the same shit. I fear that along with the dime-a-dozen look this store will create, it will also funnel the tourist and local money away from places like Union (which is directly across the street from this new urban outfitters) Custom, Minx etc. it IS a big deal. instead of adding to this amazing town’s diversity, it’s stealing opportunities from individual businesses that don’t have a corporate budget. january 28th will be a sad day.

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Jannie January 11, 2010

It’s so good to see that they are utilizing local catering and supporting local musicians. This shows they are aware of the communities worries and are trying to seek acceptance. I think people need to relax. It’s just as much a part of the community now as any of the small businesses.

I understand the worries of the small businesses, but you said it best. Let’s see what happens.

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alaina lynne drawdy January 5, 2010

Noooooo! Say it ain’t so! I’ll be in Ashvegas for the first time in 3 years next week & I deffo plan on doing some serious frowning & colorful sign language in the direction of this Box of Babylon before I leave. WHO LET THIS HAPPEN??

Additionally, how the heck are ya Jason?! Your site is kicking copious amounts of tail as always. I’ve been peeking in here over the years & have been thoroughly impressed by all that you have going on here.

Cheers, old friend! Here’s to the new decade!

peaches 😉

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latestfromsaddlecreek January 5, 2010

I can confirm. My name is Reese and I’m the store manager. The grand opening is scheduled for January 28th. The store will be open from 10am to 9pm with the grand opening festivities going on from 12 to 7. We’ll have some local bands performing as well as some local downtown resturants providing some food. We hope to see everyone out there!

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