WEST TOWN — A family-owned linens shop is ready to move on after four decades at the southeast corner of Ashland and Chicago avenues but first the owners need to find a tenant to take over their storefront.
"I have been here for 40 years. I want to retire," said Amin Rashid, owner of Jerusalem General Merchandise at 1559 W. Chicago Ave. in West Town.
Amin Rashid runs the linens shop with his wife, Alia Rashid, and their son, Moe.
Rashid said the neighborhood has changed "for the worst" for his business but "better for real estate."
Rashid said many of his customers moved to other parts of the city but "customers are my customers and they still come to shop here," Rashid said.
The store, which sells draperies, bedding, shower curtains and pillows, among other items, opened in 1974.
Rashid, who also owns the building and rents out offices above the shop, recently put up a "For Rent" sign on the Ashland-facing side of his display window, next to a colorful blanket featuring cartoon character Dora the Explorer.
Rashid said he has heard from several real estate agents who want to help him find a tenant for the 2,000-square-foot storefront.
Jerusalem General Merchandise is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays. Phone: 312-421-7799.
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