The most recent break-in was too much for the owner, and on Sunday, The Pop Up will close on Damen Avenue.
The store specializes in second-hand men's clothing and footwear, often one-of-a-kind finds from the worlds of hip hop and sports. The staff of The Pop Up had a lot got clean up and put right while getting things in place for Friday's re-opening.
Five weeks ago, surveillance video showed three people break through a common area glass door of the building and a small window above the register, taking a third of their inventory that had been sourced from around the world.
"They were in and out in less than three minutes," owner Kevin Woods said. "Structurally, a lot of damage to our furniture or showcase decorative things, and in terms of sellable items, about a third... it's disappointing, especially when you invest so much time effort and energy trying to do things the right way."
Woods explained they had been robbed twice in their previous location on West Loop. In Bucktown, he invested in extra security when they opened last year, but it wasn't enough.
"When you see the hard work taken away hours and hours and hours and weeks and months taken away, it's tough," Woods said.
Woods and his wife made the tough decision to close this weekend after six years as a Black-owned small business in Chicago.
On Friday, regulars and newcomers hearing the news came for the close-out sale and to show support. It was the first day open since the break-in in August.
"It kinda broke my heart," customer Neil Ryan said. "I know how good these guys are, and I know how much work they put in, so it's a real, real bummer."
Vaido Karsokas was among the customers who followed the store from West Loop.
"It's sad. It's really sad," Karsokas said. "It's unfortunate, but it's nice to see everyone show out and show up, and to show a face to someone and say, 'Hey man, we disagree, and we will support you either way.'"
Woods said regardless of the challenges, he is grateful to have such supportive customers and community. Now he hopes to spend more time with his wife and three sons, coach baseball and work on other projects outside of his fulltime job.
Anything left at The Pop Up after Sunday will be sold online.