By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The Bear’s Den is closing its downtown Decatur location after merging with Mind’s Eye Graphics.
“As we are getting ready to celebrate our year anniversary at Minds Eye we wanted to announce that we are merging with Bear’s Den, another local family business in Decatur, Mind’s Eye said in a Facebook posting. “We are able to increase our embroidery business and Pam (Bergdall) will be joining our team at Minds Eye.”
“Bears Den is merging with Mind’s Eye Graphics where we will continue to serve this community with custom apparel products and much more,” Bergdall said in a Facebook posting. “I will be working for Mind’s Eye and still get to do all the things I’ve loved doing at the Bear’s Den.”
Bear’s Den’s last day open to the public will be Friday, May 5, and it is currently selling out its store on Second St. between Monroe and Jackson streets. It is no longer accepting any orders.
Mind’s Eye Graphics LLC is located in at 1019 Commerce Drive in Industrial Park I in Decatur.
“As we continue to expand our services and are able to offer Screenprinting, Contract Screenprinting, Embroidery, Digital Fusion, Cad Cut/Heat Press Lettering of glitter and thermal film, Thermal Film numbering and Banners,” Mind’s Eye said in its Facebook post. “We will continue to provide unique printed apparel.”
Greg Kitson of Decatur opened Mind’s Eye in 1981 and operated it until retiring in March, when it was purchased by partners Betsey and Trent Gamble along with Rob and Jacque Welch.
The Gambles also own Betsey’s Boutique Shop, which was founded in 2011 in Rockford, Ohio. It has grown to 10 brick and mortar locations throughout the Midwest, including three franchise locations, according to information provided by the company.
Rob Welch opened Welch Trophy over 22 years ago in Van Wert, Ohio, and added a second location 10 years ago in Defiance.
“As these two small businesses combined to now operate Mind’s Eye Graphics LLC, there is excitement with their future growth in Decatur,” the MEG post said.
Pam and Don Bergdall opened Bear’s Den in Decatur seven years ago.