Today we’d like to introduce you to Orlander Johnson.
Hi Orlander, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Urban Stylez was formed in 2013. We started in the Walnut Mall in North Dallas. However, the location was only the starting point for us. After a short stay (18 months) we relocated to the Pleasant Grove are on Prairie Creek near the Bruton bazaar. It was out first brick and mortar which paved the way for the next location at 2711 S Buckner Blvd. We did business on Buckner for almost 8 yrs. As a retail store owner, I’ve learned that location and demographics are everything. Certain zip codes in Dallas are being revitalized and the target customers in the 75227-zip code were no longer frequenting Urban Stylez. We found hidden gem right in the heart of South Dallas at 2310 Martin Luther King Jr blvd. This area is being upgraded and developed, which makes it prime for retail shopping. Being 5 minutes from downtown Dallas, Deep Ellum and The Cedars is also a plus. We are finally getting settled in at this location and we plan to grow from this point on.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Running a retail clothing store is definitely challenging. With the rise in taxes and pricing on goods we receive or manufacture has caused a decrease in profitability. Nothing at this point in time is easy. There have been days when I wanted to throw in the towel. Long days and sleepless nights are part of being an entrepreneur. Cash flow is always very important to maintain the costs of operation. Those price increases are often passed along too the consumer, which is never a good thing. We changed our approach by introducing local brands through partnerships and collaborations. We found some items that sell at a lower price point to satisfy the need of those who frequent Urban Stylez. We still offer our premium brand but we carry less inventory of each of those brands to ensure a complete sell through. No money is going to be wasted here. Frugality and innovation is how we remain relevant and able to compete.
As you know, we’re big fans of Urban Stylez, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Anyone looking for trendy streetwear and quality in the same place. Then Urban Stylez is the place to go. We strive on great customer service and friendly staff in a family environment. We keep out inventory in rotation so that you get exclusive or limited pieces. We are proud to be part of the Dallas urban Community and plan to be here for a very long time. We are Dallas’ #1 Swag shop for a reason. We are the culture and we are the go-to for the drip..
Any big plans?
We are offering franchise opportunities for serious investors. My dream is to have multiple locations across the country. If that isn’t possible then we still want to be the Cornerstone in the Dallas market for streetwear and apparel.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shopurbanstylez.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usboutique214/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbanstylezdallas
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@urbanstylez214
