Reality TV Star Opens New Discount Shop In Unusual Spot
As the star of the CNBC show The Profit, millionaire and “serial entrepreneur” Marcus Lemonis is known for thinking outside the box to help struggling businesses turn a profit.
Now, a retail company he owns has opened a discount shop, Runway, in a most unusual North Loop location. It’s hidden away at the back end of Colonial Warehouse–down a ramp and next to a parking lot that customers can’t use before 5pm on weekdays since the spots are reserved for tenants.
But the discounts on luxury brands could make the hunt for the entrance worth it.
“It’s normally going to be all 50% off,” said stylist Ariel Benavidez. “For right now we’re doing a promo, 70% off your first purchase.”
Runway features women’s clothing and home decor–with plans to eventually bring in men’s clothing as well.
“We have some full-priced luxury boutiques in Chicago. This is going to be our discount store,” said Benavidez, “so that’s where all our discount merchandise will come is here.”
“Runway chose the North Loop specifically because of its lively energy and the tight knit community,” said chief operating officer Johnna Griep.
Runway is open four days a week right now, Thursdays-Saturdays 11am-7pm and Sundays noon-5.
By Mike Binkley, North Loop volunteer