Handling a Hot Potato: Columbus business is where old clothes are new again

COLUMBUS -- This is a “Hot Potato” customers want to catch.

The clothing store opened Nov. at 2504 13th St.

Hot Potato owner Bobby Smalley is making what’s old, new again.

The store features used and vintage clothing and accessories.

“People sell me their clothes, and the standard is they must be new, meaning less than three to four years old. No stains or rips. Or they must be vintage, which is really old,” he said.

He estimates the demographic ranges from 11-36 years old, but has had people older bring in clothes to sell.

Smalley emphasizes this is not a consignment business. He pays cash on the spot for any clothes he buys and sells them in the store.

He got started by hitting rummage sales, acquiring his inventory in just two months. From this point, the store will be stocked with what customers bring in.

“They don’t have to pay a lot for nice clothing,” he said. “I’ve turned over the inventory quite a bit already.”

Smalley said the unique name has a purpose.

“I was looking for something playful and kind of relevant,” Smalley said. “You start with hot clothes and pass them around while they’re still hot.”

After working in the restaurant business seven years, the 29-year-old Smalley said the store is a natural for downtown Columbus.

“I always liked little shops and unique items, and I wanted to work for myself,” he said.

Grand opening is Dec. 4.

Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.