Calling all local entrepreneurs and startups! Are you looking to kickstart your business idea? Is your online business busting for a space to show off? The Arboretum of South Barrington has just the opportunity! Back for a second successful year, The Arb is hosting the Battle of the Pop-Up Challenge — a contest open to area entrepreneurs, business start-ups and anyone with an idea they’d like to test.
The winning entrepreneur receives free space in The Arboretum of South Barrington for four months, use of existing mall or store fixtures and free utilities. The winner also receives a $500 merchandising package that includes interior signage, table-printed displays and graphic design services.
The Arbs first Battle of the Pop-Up winner, Purple Me Green, the Science Store founder, Mary Stupen says the opportunity has made a world of difference fo their business. “The Arboretum of South Barrington has allowed Purple Me Green, the Science Store to grow and take the next leap in our business journey in so many ways. We are endlessly grateful for this opportunity as a local small business.”
Arboretum of South Barrington marketing director, Stacy Kallas says they’re excited to host the challenge for a second year. “We feel it’s important to support the community and to support new or upcoming local businesses,” Kallas says. “We had a terrific response to our first Battle of the Pop-Up and are looking forward to the ideas that will be submitted this year.”
To enter, participants must be prepared to obtain a business license by Monday, July 1, 2019 and operate their business during mall hours from Monday, July 1, 2019 through Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019. Entries will be judged on business strategy, concept creativity, and likelihood of profitability, among other criteria. The deadline for entries is Friday, April 19, 2019.
There is no cost to enter. Applicants may enter one of three ways:
- The Arboretum of South Barrington’s website
- In person, by visiting the mall management office at 100 W Higgins Road, Suite H-72, South Barrington, IL 60010
- Email this completed PDF to TheChallenge@StarwoodRetail.com
Winners will be contacted via email or phone on Monday, May 6.
The Arboretum of South Barrington is an open-air center named for the lush trees and gardens of its landscape and for the large tree farm that formerly stood on the site. An upscale mix of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues including iPic Theaters, L.L.Bean’s first Midwest outdoor gear and apparel store and the incomparable Pinstripes Bowling/Bocce/Bistro. Located at 100 West Higgins Road in South Barrington, “The Arb’s” stores include Arhaus Furniture, Anna Shea Chocolates & Lounge, Chico’s, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, LOFT, Victoria’s Secret, DSW, Panera Bread, Ruth’s Chris Steak House and more. Plan your next visit at ShopTheArb.com.
