Small independently operated local businesses make Ann Arbor the gem of a shopping town that it is. Boutiques and shops along Main Street and other corridors of the downtown area see plenty of foot traffic, and some report little effect from the economic downturn during the last few years.

But what about small shops outside of the downtown district?

Jim Kimble and son Daniel help customers at Gji’s Sweet Shoppe on a Saturday afternoon.

Angela Smith | Contributor

Diver’s Inc. Watersports, Mimi’s Bridal, Wheels in Motion and Pierre Paul Art Gallery are all small businesses that have been located in Ann Arbor's Arlington Square for years. Traffic in the area is dense, and the storefronts are separated from the road by a large parking area. Store managers in Arlington Square report that customers often times come in and say “We never even knew you were here.”

Jim Kimble hopes to put an end to that. Kimble owns Gji’s Sweet Shoppe. The original is a successful candy shop in suburban Chicago; the second location opened in Arlington Square in October. Kimble has a background in business, an MBA, and 15 years of Ann Arbor business experience (Kimble also owns Boersma Travel in Nickel’s Arcade), and wanted to do something to bring energy to the Washtenaw Avenue area.

In doing some marketing research, Kimble found that businesses near a farmers market or classic car show can expect to see a 50-90 percent increase in business during such events.

He began discussing this idea with neighboring store owners. “If we can get people to come in and shop it will be of benefit for everyone,” he told them.

He began envisioning what a special event like this would look like in the parking area in front of his shop.

Angela Smith | Contributor

Recently, Kimble has taken some steps to make that dream a reality. After talking to city officials and other area merchants, filing the necessary paperwork, and coordinating farmers, car owners and entertainers, Kimble has big plans for Fridays in Arlington Square.

Beginning June 4, and running through Oct. 29, Gji’s Sweet Shoppe will sponsor a farmers Market from noon till 5:30 p.m. every Friday. The market will have some of the same vendors found at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The market area will have free parking and be blocked off in order to allow for traffic-free shopping.

At 5:45 p.m., the area will be transformed into a Classic Car Show. Kimble envisions a fun place where people can take a nostalgic walk down memory lane. He plans to offer food and refreshments, and he has already found live entertainment for the first three evenings.

Kimble realizes that profits may not be seen right away but is hopeful that over time, proceeds from the events will go to support the Ann Arbor Community Center.

Rev. Yolanda Whiten, a Gji’s regular customer and director of the Ann Arbor Community Center, says she is not surprised by Kimble's plans. “Mr. Kimble has always been this way … he’s always done what he can to give to the community.”

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail and business news in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.