HVNA and its Merchant members helped to write and implement the nation’s first ban on formula retail (chain stores) several years ago. The purpose of the ban is to protect small businesses and provide a unique retail environment. There have been studies that also show small businesses create more jobs in SF than the chain (formula) stores do. As Hayes Valley has becomes a very desirable retail destination, the chain stores try to circumvent the ban in a number of ways. The latest is Ace & Kit’s idea to open in Hayes Valley while its number of stores is under 11, but the intention is open 50 by the end of 2015. Kit and Ace, while the business is new, intends to be a global retailer within its first year of operation. No intention to be a small retailer, but equal to Lululemon, Gap, North Face, and others.
