Jun 30, 2011

Saddle Creek label opens storeBy Kevin CoffeyOmaha.com

Saddle Creek Records is taking the natural next step in its business plan. The indie label has opened a record store.

Called the Saddle Creek Shop, it features all of the label’s in-print vinyl and CD releases as well as T-shirts, posters and other merchandise.

It’s in a small storefront near the label’s warehouse next to Slowdown, the north downtown rock club owned and operated by Saddle Creek’s Robb Nansel and Jason Kulbel.

They’ve tossed the idea of a brick-and-mortar store around for years. They have inventory, relationships with record distributors and plenty of space.

“We just had to put in glass doors and build out a little bit of a counter and the racks to hold everything,” said Saddle Creek’s Jeff Tafolla. “It’s a pretty low-cost startup and low overhead because we’re already paying the bills on the warehouse.”

The store is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Store hours will be extended before big shows at Slowdown and for in-store performances or other events. A grand-opening celebration is set for July 9.

(Hint: If the black flag is hanging outside the store, it’s open.)

Label managers also see it as a tourist destination.

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