The Shadow
For Jay Workman, owner and operator of Jay’s Trading Post, it has taken seven years for his business to find its permanent location after several rounds of trial and error. However, as Workman discussed his journey, it was evident the long road “home” was well worth the wait.
“I outgrew my small store… [The new store] is actually set up the way I always wanted it,” Workman said as he described the differences.
Workman’s new location is exponentially larger than his old one and consists of three levels, a freight elevator (that is currently not in use), and two flights of stairs. The third level is closed off momentarily and is being used as a warehouse.
Unlike the previous buildings that he rented on a month-to-month basis, Workman has been given the opportunity to purchase his store’s current building from Gerald Franson. It was an opportunity Workman could not turn down as he excitedly shared his plans for the “homey” store, which includes a full remodel of the third floor and —eventually— opening it up to customers. Additionally, he will be remodeling the stairs and the freight elevator. Currently, the freight elevator holds 10,000 pounds. Once it is completed, it will hold 50,000.
At this point, he is undecided as to what he will put on the third floor following the remodel but has a clear vision of how he wants to organize the store as a whole. “I always wanted stuff in sections, so that’s my goal,” Workman said. “Right now, I’m getting there, but slowly.”
“Jay’s Trading Post” is done growing, according to Workman, who says he now has plenty of room to sell his merchandise consisting of guitars, furniture, clothing, antiques, toys, game consoles, video games, board games, DVDs, jewelry, knick-knacks, incense, etc.
While some know Workman for his good business sense, his customers recognize him for his love of 80’s movies, as that one person who can make friends with anyone, or as the all-around nice guy with a deep conviction toward his community.
Workman stated, “I always try to donate… I do all the car shows. I give something; either gift certificates or cash donations, or a guitar; something they can raffle. I always feel like, you know, the community supports me, so I give back to the community.”
To visit “Jay’s Trading Post” or buy/sell/trade merchandise, he is located at 361 W. Main Street in Covington. Store hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and closed on Sunday. For additional information, call Jay directly at 540-958-2847.
