Retail

Episode 33 – Aeslin Pup Hub, Brick and Mortar for All Your Pet Needs

Leah says she feels “conflicted” about doing business in the city of Chicago. Sometimes the red tape, regulations, and seemingly exorbitant cost of doing business makes it difficult to spend the money where it matters most — her staff. Despite the growing pains, what’s next for the Aeslin pet family?

Episode 32 – Dinobi Detergent, a family-owned manufacturer in Chicago

Sylvia and Augie’s business grew out of a personal need for an effective laundry detergent that wouldn’t irritate their family’s sensitive skin. From diaper rash to eczema to sweaty workout clothes, Sylvia couldn’t find an “all in one” product that worked for everyone, so she engaged an organic chemist to create one. Dinobi Detergent is designed to be an affordable, plant-based laundry detergent that is powerful in the wash, yet gentle on skin and the environment. From changing consumers’ buying habits, to navigating the city’s contract and procurement process, to keeping their product in stock for wholesalers, doing business isn’t always easy. What is the vision for Dinobi over the next five years?

Episode 31 – Forty Acres Fresh Market, a Pop-Up Grocer

Liz says doing business in Chicago is “uncertain” because she’s trying something a little outside of the box in the grocery market. Forty Acres Fresh Market is a pop up grocer specializing in selling high quality fresh produce at an everyday low price. Founded in response to the dearth of fresh food options on Chicago’s West Side, Liz is doubling down on community partnerships, grants, and building credibility in her neighborhood.Can this business model thrive in the long term?

Episode 27 – The Silver Room, Eclectic Retail and Sound System Block Party in Hyde Park

Eric describes doing business in Chicago as “exhilarating.” Despite being a natural entrepreneur who loves his city and his community, it isn’t always easy to navigate the city’s codes and licenses. How exactly did Eric go from peddling Bart Simpson t-shirts on the street, to a lifestyle retail space in Wicker Park and a move to Hyde Park, to starting a block party in Hyde Park that attracts thousands of people, to pop-up shops around Chicago?

Episode 26 – StellaLily, a Mobile Business based in Ravenswood

Juana describes doing business in Chicago as “frustrating”. She spent much of her life savings outfitting a truck for mobile retail, but how’s it going?

Episode 20 – Moon Meals of Hyde Park, a Food Producer

LaForce describes doing business in Chicago as “interesting”. LaForce says you have to be patient when you’re getting all the correct licenses and permits. How much time does he suggest you allot?

Episode 13 – Dearborn Denim of West Garfield Park, a Denim Brand and Manufacturer

Robert describes doing business in Chicago as full of “good people”. He says Chicago is one of the best places in America to launch an apparel manufacturing business. What about the city makes it a hospitable place for skilled workers in this industry?

Episode 12 – Boombox Throughout Chicago , an Architect and Developer

Katherine describes doing business in Chicago as “hilarious”. When she first had the idea to support micro-retail, it was illegal. In what ways has Katherine worked with City Hall to create processes that support microbusiness owners?

Episode 10 – Tea Squares of Englewood, a Food Manufacturer

Jordan describes doing business in Chicago as “aspirational”. He always wanted his business to benefit the local South Side community. What employment strategy has he chosen to further this mission?

Episode 8 – Shop the Thrifty Fashionista, a Mobile Business, Fashion Resale Truck

Jera and Joslyn describe doing business in Chicago as “interesting”. This mother-daughter duo decided to open a mobile thrift boutique. What steps did they have to take to ensure they’re compliant with the city’s requirements?