Alumni Hall: From CatBird Seat to Collegiate Hub in Fayette Mall and Beyond
Alumni Hall, a retailer specializing in collegiate apparel, merchandise, and gifts, has a presence in Fayette Mall in Lexington, Kentucky, as well as in Louisville and Bowling Green. This article explores the history of Alumni Hall, particularly its expansion into the Lexington market through the acquisition of former CatBird Seat locations, including the one at Fayette Mall.
Origins and Expansion
Alumni Hall's growth in Kentucky began with its purchase of the CatBird Seat stores. These stores, similar to Alumni Hall, catered to college sports fans and alumni. The acquisition allowed Alumni Hall to establish a foothold in the Lexington market, specifically at Fayette Mall.
Jeff Goodfriend, the owner of Alumni Hall, expressed his enthusiasm about entering the Lexington market, emphasizing the passion of the local fans. He noted that Alumni Hall develops much of its own merchandise, particularly decorations for T-shirts and other apparel, while also carrying a selection of different brands.
Acquisition of CatBird Seat Locations
Alumni Hall secured the CatBird Seat locations through an auction held by Dawahare's bankruptcy attorneys. Dawahare's, a clothing retailer, had faced financial difficulties due to economic pressures and increased competition, leading to its bankruptcy filing.
The auction process involved 117 rounds of bidding, ultimately resulting in Alumni Hall's successful acquisition of the CatBird Seat stores. This acquisition expanded Alumni Hall's footprint to include locations at Fayette Mall in Lexington, as well as Springhurst Towne Center and Mall St. Matthews in Louisville.
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The Dawahare's Connection
The story of Alumni Hall is intertwined with the history of Dawahare's, a Lexington-based retailer with a long-standing presence in the community. Interestingly, Jeff Goodfriend purchased Alumni Hall from Jimmy Dawahare, a member of the Dawahare family, approximately 14 months before acquiring the CatBird Seat stores. Jimmy Dawahare remained with Alumni Hall after the purchase.
Alumni Hall's Presence in Lexington
With the acquisition of the CatBird Seat store at Fayette Mall, Alumni Hall solidified its presence in Lexington. The store offers a range of collegiate apparel, merchandise, and gifts, catering to the passionate fans of local universities, particularly the University of Kentucky.
In addition to its Fayette Mall location, Alumni Hall also planned to open a store in The Square, formerly known as Victorian Square, in downtown Lexington. This 3,000-square-foot space was intended to be open in time for the 2014 holiday season, further expanding Alumni Hall's reach in the Lexington market.
Changes in Lexington's Retail Landscape
The arrival of Alumni Hall in Lexington coincided with other changes in the city's retail landscape. For example, the former DeSha's restaurant location on Main Street and Broadway was slated to become an Urban Outfitters store. Additionally, Tony's Steak and Seafood, an upscale Cincinnati restaurant, planned to open a location in The Square.
These developments reflect the dynamic nature of the retail market in Lexington, with new businesses and concepts emerging to meet the evolving needs and preferences of consumers.
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Alumni Hall's Continued Growth
Following the acquisition of the CatBird Seat stores, Alumni Hall continued to expand its presence in the region. The company's next new store was planned for Bowling Green, Kentucky. This expansion demonstrates Alumni Hall's commitment to serving college sports fans and alumni throughout Kentucky and beyond.
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