Kidd Closes Youngstown Nation Storefront

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – After four years, Youngstown Nation owner Phil Kidd has closed his storefront in downtown Youngstown.

“I don’t have the time anymore,” Kidd says. “I’m only there Saturday afternoons for five hours. It got to the point where I had to ask myself if I wanted to keep paying rent and utilities if I was using it so little.”

In February 2015, Youngstown CityScape hired Kidd as its associate director and since then, he says, his time has mostly been spent with the beautification group rather than at his store.

While the storefront is closing, Youngstown Nation merchandise will still be available online, as well as at area festivals and events including the Youngstown Flea Market for Makers. The Defend Youngstown website, which includes a weekly news roundup, will continue to operate.

The storefront on Phelps Street in downtown shouldn’t be empty for long, Kidd adds, noting that he’s heard of two businesses who are “immediately interested” in moving into the space.

“That in and of itself is a good sign,” said Kidd, who was among the early activists for downtown Youngstown revitalization. “The downtown area will continue to grow. The campus area will continue to grow. The residential areas will continue to grow. I’m very encouraged by all of that.”

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.