Kansas City Bids Farewell to 7th Heaven: A Retail Icon’s Last Curtain Call
Ah, Kansas City! Known for its barbecue, jazz, and unique local businesses, but one shop that has left an indelible mark on the community has recently closed its doors for the last time. 7th Heaven, the legendary retail spot at 7621 Troost Ave., has officially shut down after a remarkable 50-year run. From selling quirky vinyl records to an array of smoking accessories and a dash of adult goods, this store has seen it all and more!
More than Just Vinyl
Founded by Jan Fichman, a lively 72-year-old entrepreneur, 7th Heaven wasn’t just another record store. While the *crackling sound of vinyl* filled the air, Fichman made sure his shop was much more than that. With distinct areas for music, smoking gadgets, and adult toys, the eclectic inventory catered to a wide array of customers. But let’s be clear, Fichman himself admits he wasn’t exactly a connoisseur of the products he sold! “I’d never smoked in my life,” he says, emphasizing that his business approach was rooted in pure entrepreneurial spirit.
A Nostalgic Business Journey
Jan wasn’t new to the business game. Growing up, he watched his father— a World War II veteran— sell cars and learned the ropes of engaging customers. By high school, he was already honing his skills at a local Ben Franklin store. His adventurous retail journey truly began with selling bootleg eight-track tapes out of his car in the early 70s, all while keeping an eye on music trends like punk rock and hip-hop before they hit the mainstream.
Finding Success Amid Change
Throughout the years, 7th Heaven thrived by constantly adapting to changing trends. Before superstores like IKEA and Walmart changed the game, the shop was known for selling quality futons, making it a cozy hangout for young adults and college students. It even had its stint selling used computers, a novelty when technology first hit the consumer market!
With five locations at its peak, the shop kept expanding but eventually settled into the familiar Troost space. Fichman’s ability to create a welcoming atmosphere attracted folks who came not just to shop but to linger and explore. “For me, it was more about creating an experience than just selling widgets,” he shared.
Creating Meaningful Moments
But beyond the retail numbers and product variety, Fichman finds joy in the memories his store created for shoppers. One anecdote stands out: a man searching for a Luther Vandross album to remember his late wife on their anniversary came to 7th Heaven. “Do you know how much this means to me?” he asked Fichman when they finally found it. These moments meant everything to the store’s founder, bringing a deeply personal touch to the retail experience.
A Legacy That Will Be Remembered
The closing of 7th Heaven marks the end of an era in Kansas City. Fellow business owners and local musicians alike have taken a moment to appreciate what Fichman contributed to the community. Frank Alvarez, co-owner of Sister Anne’s Records and Coffee, called Fichman a “force” behind local music promotion, applauding him for running a successful retail business that “meant something to a lot of people.”
As the dust settles, the legacy of 7th Heaven will undoubtedly linger on in the hearts of those who frequented its aisles. Jan Fichman may be closing this chapter, but he leaves behind a rich tapestry of community memories, entrepreneurial spirit, and an undeniable love for music and experience.
