Urban Thread announced Monday via Facebook that it will be moving to a new location.
Attracted to lower rent and better parking, owner Lilly Kline has chosen to move the store to a stand-alone building located at 1210 NW 23rd Ave., just a few minutes away from the current location.
Kline, who would regularly pass the vacant building, said it always looked sad, so she decided to renovate it and move her business there.
Known for its unique inventory and quaint feel, fans of the store can still expect the same vibe but with a few changes.
“With lower rent, I can offer better prices to the customers,” Kline said.
Savings will also be passed on to customers through more frequent sales at the new location.
The current location will stay open during the move, and the new storefront will be open on Feb. 3.
During the move, customers can take advantage of the store’s moving sale. All shorts, Free People pants and Anthropologie clothing are currently 50 percent off.
Kline is planning a grand-opening event with a 30 percent discount on all Free People merchandise. More details can be found on the store’s Facebook page.
Kline has a few specific goals for growing the business within the next year but assures customers the feel of the store won’t be compromised with the new location.
“I love when people come in and feel a sense of home in the store,” Kline said. “I always wanted a store that feels comfortable and relaxed.”
The relocated Urban Thread will still carry home goods and all of its current brands including Free People, Anthropologie and Saint & Noble, and will be bringing in new brands and inventory.
“I want to bring in other brands to complement what we already have,” she said.
For the college fashionista, that means more vintage items.
Kline also said she plans to incorporate more social media into the store’s advertising plan by posting more frequently on Facebook and Instagram.
Janaye McGrew, a 22-year-old UF advertising senior, said she has been a frequent shopper at Urban Thread since she moved to Gainesville two years ago, and she plans to follow the store when it moves.
“I like shopping here because they have a different selection than most boutiques in Gainesville,” she said. “I also love the home goods.”
[A version of this story ran on page 7 on 1/23/2014 under the headline "Urban Thread moves locations, expect sales and new stock"]
Employees organize the aisles of Urban Thread, located at 1512 NW 13th St., Wednesday afternoon.
