High Point plans online pilot store for new city merchandise; proceeds and model still under review
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Summary
Managing Director Jaron Hollis told the committee the city will pilot an online store for merchandise featuring a secondary mark of the new city brand, with a tentative third-quarter launch; staff and vendors are still working through vendor selection, inventory and how to manage net proceeds.
Managing Director Jaron Hollis briefed the Transparency, Engagement and Communication Committee on May 21 on plans for a city merchandise store tied to the city’s new visual identity.
Hollis said residents have shown demand for branded items that use the city’s secondary mark (an “HDOT” secondary mark staff displayed), and the city is exploring a third‑party vendor to manage online orders and inventory. “At this point, we're looking at a third quarter of this year launch, for the store. And we're finalizing the vendor selection and the item offerings for the community,” Hollis said.
Hollis told the committee the city is coordinating with finance and legal staff on platform and inventory models, and that the pilot will start with an online platform though physical retail partnerships remain a possibility later. When asked about net proceeds, Hollis said the city has discussed several models but has not finalized how proceeds from sales would be handled.
Committee members suggested options such as partnerships with local retailers and airport or visitor centers; Hollis said the initiative will remain flexible as the pilot collects demand data and vendor responses.
No formal action or vote was taken during the item.
Hollis framed the store as an extension of a successful branding rollout in which residents have shown strong interest in city merchandise.