Amherst College Store Opens at Former Location of Hastings
The Amherst College Store opened for business on April 29, 2024 at the site of the former Hastings. Photo: amherst.edu
Source: amherst.edu
The Amherst College Store, a new retail establishment, opened its doors on April 29. Located in the former A.J. Hastings space at 45 South Pleasant Street and operated by campus retailer Follett, the store sells College-branded gear, school supplies, tech accessories and snacks.
“We are thrilled that the Amherst College Store is now open for business, and that we are able to bring to life again a historic location in our town,” said Michael A. Elliott, president of the College. “Our hope is that the store will not just meet a much-expressed desire for College gear from campus and beyond, but serve as a gateway for members of the college community, alumni and visitors into our hometown.”
“We can’t wait for the campus community to experience the new store,” said Sovany Trezpacz, Amherst College Store manager. “Our grand opening will showcase everything from our incredible assortments of apparel, gifts and supplies to the everyday items and accessories that students and campus members need for a successful year.”
The store’s hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Merchandise can also be ordered online via the store website.
“We’re delighted to welcome the new Amherst College Store, which will enrich our local business community in the downtown area and further build a strong connection between Amherst College and the town, as well as create unique opportunities for collaboration and engagement with the Chamber and community,” said Jacob Robinson, executive director the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce.
A.J. Hastings was run by three generations of the Hastings family and, over time, hundreds of dedicated employees. Selling everything from newspapers to collegiate clothing, the iconic institution served the residents, students and visitors of Amherst 365 days a year. It closed its doors on July 17, 2022, 108 years to the day after its opening.
In 2023, the College began conversations with Follett to run a college store selling Amherst-branded gear and merchandise. The Hastings building was selected as the preferred location for the store, and in late 2023, work began to update the space.