A new apparel store near the corner of Grand River Avenue and Abbot Road hopes to offer a unique twist on footwear to the East Lansing community and its visitors alike.
Shoe and clothing chain VILLA had a soft opening Sunday, and will have its grand opening celebration this weekend. The East Lansing location is one of four new VILLA locations in the Midwest.
VILLA is filling the space formerly occupied by Snap Fitness, a 24-hour gym, at 115 E. Grand River Ave.
Store manager Drew Speese said VILLA carries apparel for men and women generally between the ages of 16 and 30.
The company primarily caters to “the sneaker head, or the person who’s going to buy the newest shoe releases.”
The store features an array of flat-screen televisions and Apple computers.
The modern atmosphere inside the store plays a huge role in the high-energy shopping experience VILLA strives to deliver, Speese said.
The shopping experience isn’t the only thing the modern and energetic atmosphere plays a large role in.
“The biggest thing VILLA tries to do is maintain a boutique feel.
With that, we want to build personal relationships with our customers and give a more local feel,” Speese said.
Part of VILLA’s mission statement includes its commitment to “delivering superior customer service along with financial support and volunteer service to the communities we serve.”
The company also strives to be a premier fashion retailer by fusing the best of fashion and music into a high-energy shopping experience.
Many students and community members still are learning about the chain’s presence in East Lansing.
“It’s great to have different kinds of stores around campus because it makes it easier for us college students to shop whenever necessary, especially when they’re small boutiques you don’t hear of often,” education freshman Zaina Mahmoud said.
According to VILLA’s official website, sales experts are both current and aspiring community leaders, as the company hires from within the community.
The community as a whole, along with service and involvement, is an important part of VILLA’s goals and aspirations as a company.
Officials said the company often provides financial support and volunteer services to the communities they put up shop in.
“The company really cares about what’s happening in the community,” VILLA employee and advertising sophomore Chris Jackson said. “They’re out there as a resource, rather than just a source where customers can spend their money.”
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