Recently, I started a photo series that has been on the back burner of my mind for a while– ”Businesses on the Boulevard.” It’s (going to be) an indefinite ongoing project that features small or local businesses, specifically focusing on the owners and their constituents.

There are a myriad of reasons why I’m starting this series, with the top three being:

1. Filling gaps in the interim between big projects while simultaneously combating artist’s block.
2. Networking.
3. Educating myself on Los Angeles communities and members of their local establishments, starting with my very own Echo Park.

At the time this is published, Banker Supply’s LA branch will be about 4 months old. As one of the youngest establishments in Echo Park at the time, I figured they would be the most open to a photo op. After a few email exchanges, I went to learn about and photograph the owners, Nick Drombosky (left) and Julius Brenninkmeijer (right). Needless to say, they and their staff were very welcoming and friendly.

While I’ve seen my fair share of bike, bike accessory, and lifestyle shops, this one is most definitely unique. From the shelves lining the storefront to the drywall and white paint job. The exposed floor created and destroyed tile by tile to that cage suspending a bike in midair. Nick, Julius, and their staff tore apart, and rebuilt the entire interior from scratch. Contrary to most cycling shops, the interior is spacious, with lots of natural light, and a giant sofa, which encourages guests to hang out for a while.

But what really caught my attention is how they use their platform and brand to educate and promote diversity.

For the month of February 2017, they’ve decided to dedicate their Instagram (@bankersupply) feed to “exploring the contributions to cycling by African Americans” and have also gone as far as very deliberately having rainbow bike decals on the front door in support of the LGBTQ. While most other brands would consider this marketing suicide, Nick and Julius embrace these ideals and proudly broadcast them.

It was awesome working with these gentlemen and learning the story behind Banker Supply (Nick will happily explain it to you). Whether you’re interested in cycling or not, it’s definitely worth swinging by Echo Park to check these guys out.

Banker Supply
1571 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
https://bankersupply.co/
@bankersupply

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Banker Supply Co.