AKRON, OH (BRAIN)—Given today's difficult economic climate, small business ownership represents a challenging endeavor for anyone, much less a young, untested entrepreneur. But for Akron native Andy Bixenstine, 26, the decision to open a bicycle shop in his hometown was much like riding a bike, itself–productive, satisfying and nearly effortless.
Bixenstine is proud to announce the grand opening of Blimp City Bike & Hike (BCB), a full-service retail shop specializing in selling, servicing and renting quality bicycles. Located at 1720 Unit A Merriman Rd. on the Towpath Trail in Akron's Merriman Valley business district, BCB will open for business just in time for the holiday shopping season the weekend of Nov. 27-29.
"On behalf of the greater Akron community and bicycle enthusiasts everywhere, it's with tremendous pleasure that I announce the opening of Blimp City Bike & Hike, 'Akron's Headquarters for Adventure at Home,'" said Bixenstine. "BCB fulfills the need for a bicycle shop in west Akron, and I'm excited to serve the community by offering a dynamic product line that will have something to offer every bicyclist, no matter what age, interest or skill level."
BCB will feature bicycles from Kona and Felt, and a wide range of bicycle accessories to complement a full-service repair shop and extensive rental offerings. In addition to bicycle-related merchandise, BCB also will sport outdoor apparel, footwear and accessories from leading brands within the outdoor specialty industry.
Despite being a twenty-something entrepreneur without prior business ownership experience, Bixenstine has lofty expectations for his upstart bicycle shop. He intends for BCB to promote healthy living, serve as an environmentally-friendly business and help bolster the greater Akron economy.
"I've aspired to own my own business almost as long as I've been riding bikes," Bixenstine said. "I take great pride in being an 'Akronite,' and it's my hope that Blimp City Bike & Hike will enable me to give back to the community that has given me so much."
