In this episode, Terresa Zimmerman talks with Patrick Burch about the journey of creating Cave & Post Trading Co., a men's-focused retail store in Phoenix. Patrick explains how he and his wife Mary transformed what was meant to be a "glorified man cave" into a thriving retail business that bridges the gap in men's boutique shopping.

The conversation explores how Cave & Post selects inventory with a focus on heritage brands, quality craftsmanship, and products with compelling stories. Patrick shares how they've created a welcoming "Cheers bar" atmosphere where customers are remembered by name, and he discusses their vision of inspiring men to live well-rounded lives beyond just looking good.

Patrick offers candid insights about the financial challenges of marketing a modern retail business, particularly the complexities of managing digital ad spend across multiple platforms. He also discusses emerging retail trends, including the continued popularity of Western wear, growing interest in American-made products, and consumers' increasing preference for quality over fast fashion.

Timestamps

00:01:07 - 00:03:48 - Origins, naming, location selection

00:04:28 - 00:06:04 - Aesthetics, fixtures, merchandising philosophy

00:08:01 - 00:12:30 - Initial buying strategy, market visits, finding new products

00:15:09 - 00:19:05 - Demographics, building relationships, personalized service

00:19:58 - 00:22:06 - Marketing costs, retail difficulties

00:30:52 - 00:32:56 - Trends, encouraging personal style, quality focus

00:35:36 - 00:38:48 - Price vs. value conversation, serving value-conscious customers

00:39:00 - 00:40:32 - Importance of brands with narratives, customer interest in these stories

00:41:47 - 00:42:36 - Employee knowledge and engagement

00:43:46 - 00:44:15 - Denim industry, textile history in North Carolina

Featured Store:

Connect with Cave and Post Trading Co.

⁠https://www.caveandpost.com/⁠

⁠509 W McDowell Rd., Suite 102 Phoenix, AZ 85003⁠

⁠602.931.0090⁠ / ⁠602.430.2032⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/caveandpost/⁠

Connect with Us:

Main Street Matters Podcast:

Website: www.mainstreetmatters.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetmatters1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-matters

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MainStreetMatters_MSM

Host - Terresa Zimmerman:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/terresachristensonzimmerman