Business name: Play It Again Sports Vancouver WA, an independently owned and operated franchise.
Owner: Jackie Bauter.
Address: 8101 N.E. Parkway Drive.
What the business does: Play It Again Sports is the family-owned and operated franchise of a Minnesota-based company. The store buys, sells and trades new and used sports and fitness equipment. Customers can bring in their gently used gear to receive trade credit towards any purchase. The store also sells on consignment.
How has the economy affected your business: At a time when many businesses are suffering, the trade in second-hand goods has benefited this local store, said owner Jackie Bauter. Shoppers who once may have paid premium for brand new goods are now more likely to seek out lower-priced used items. If someone really wants the new $150 Demarini bat, they can trade in their used gear to apply toward its price.
o Each week, The Columbian offers a brief snapshot of an interesting Clark County business. Send ideas to Mary Ricks: mary.ricks@columbian.com; fax 360-735-4598; phone 360-735-4550.
