No one could have predicted that Campus WheelWorks would be vacating its longtime Elmwood Avenue store, especially after its expansion in 2022.
Bike shop owners Ethan Johnson and Alex Davis chose to consolidate operations into their new headquarters on Niagara Street. Niagara Street has a bike-friendly nature, so I think the decision to choose the Niagara Street location over Elmwood makes sense.
When I spoke with Ethan Johnson about the new Niagara Street bike shop in July 2021, he said the Niagara Street bike path was a big factor in drawing him to that “prime location.”
Campus WheelWorks said in a recent greeting to customers: “Campus WheelWorks will relocate exclusively to 1330 Niagara St, Buffalo, NY 14213 by the end of 2023. With our focus on the future, our newly renovated Campus Niagara location will continue to create careers. We provide one-stop opportunities, consistent hours of operation, and unique customer service. We don’t take this move lightly because we care about Elmwood Village, but we are confident in this positive change. After three years of struggle, running his two stores in the city is unsustainable. ”
The only advantage of this is that the owners will leave the newly expanded and updated store location in Elmwood, a prime location in the heart of the district. That said, it’s hard to imagine Elmwood Avenue without Campus Wheelworks. I can’t remember a time in my life without this store… I’m sure I will miss it.
Did you know that Campus WheelWorks is a spin-off from Clayton’s Toy Store dating back to 1973?
A sad day for Elmwood, but a happy day for Niagara Street. It’s no surprise to have a business of this nature serving the many cyclists who have come to depend on the convenience and safety of new bike paths. Niagara Street is a hub for bike enthusiasts.
Campus WheelWorks will remain open in Elmwood through the end of August.