According to a press release provided to AFROTECH™, The Whitaker Group, the creative company behind brands such as A Ma Maniére, Social Status, APB and Prosper, revealed plans for The Collective. Tuckasee GeeLocated in Charlotte, it is a retail campus with 13,000 square feet and 10 retail stores.
The Collective aims to spur economic development in a number of ways. The venture includes not only local entrepreneurs, but also the APB Skatepark, It is the nation's first privately owned, Black-owned, open to the public, non-DIY skatepark. The skate park was developed in collaboration with The Boardr, a trio of companies with expertise in skateboard facility design and construction, event production and consulting, and athlete management, the company's website states.
Additionally, Whittaker Group plans to launch its own apparel brands, APB Charlotte and APB You. APB Social Impact platform They will have programming for the skate community, including after-school lessons, trick instruction and events welcoming youth, women and families.
“Black culture has always been a driving force in shaping global trends,” Whitaker Group founder James Widner said in a press release. “This complex marks an important step in communicating how our culture has influenced fashion, business and lifestyle overall. We are excited to provide a space for local businesses and communities to come together and thrive. Through this opening, we will also expand our reach to the skateboarding community, providing a safe space for local youth to express themselves and discover the wonder of the sport and incredible culture.”
The skate park will open on Go Skate Day, June 21, 2024, and will be the first part of the project to be open to the public. The skate park will host a week of programming, culminating in a The first ever APB live music event and block party will be held June 28th and 29th.
The Collective on Tuckaseegee is expected to officially open in late summer 2024.