Bhen Jachimiak calls himself a "16-year survivor of life in retail management," and that status has informed every aspect of his new S. State St. venture,
Hipsters Underground.
Located in a 1500 square foot space next to
Star Vintage, the new retail store and events space is anything but a typical store.
"The store's tag-line of 'A little artsy, a little fartsy' fits me perfectly," says Jachimiak. "'Hipster' just seemed to fit the idea of not doing what other stores are doing."
Hipsters Underground opened on June 30, featuring eco-friendly, unique products from individual and local individuals and artists. Jachimiak says his primary goals with the store include supporting community and avoiding mass-produced and non-sustainable products.
In addition to retail, Hipsters Underground is also an art gallery featuring local artists, as well as a gathering space for open mic nights, poetry readings and story slams. Though Jachimiak looked at a number of locations for his multi-purpose business, he says Ann Arbor was the obvious choice.
"I felt from the start that Ann Arbor would embrace my 'Recycled. Repurposed. Responsible.' motto," he says. "I love the location on central campus - the energy, the people, the constant 'commotion' on State Street."
Hipsters Underground celebrated their grand opening on July 20. The shop is currently operated by Jachimiak and his family, and he plans to grow a staff of up to five this fall.
Source: Bhen Jachimiak, Hipsters Underground
Writer: Natalie Burg
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