The Akron Double-Sided Keychain Charm
3.15" x 1.57"
$4.99
Product Details & Size Guide
GhostCorp Apparel - resurrecting iconic corporate ghosts.
The Akron’s story began on Sunset Boulevard in 1947 and soon grew beyond army-surplus goods into imported decor, clothing, plants, and other unexpected finds. This Double-Sided Keychain Charm makes a small, everyday tribute to a retailer that never fit the conventional department-store mold. Its journey through California, from Los Angeles to San Francisco and San Diego, reflects decades of changing shopping habits and retail reinvention. A thoughtful pick for Akron collectors, former shoppers, and anyone drawn to Southern California history.
The Akron, also known as Akron Stores, began in 1947 when Bernard Field and Hyman Fink opened the Akron Army & Navy Stores on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, selling mainly army-surplus goods. By 1950, the business had moved to 4400 Sunset Boulevard and was also selling to customers nationwide by mail order. In 1952 or 1953, it became The Akron, shifting toward imported goods, home furnishings, clothing, plants, and other eclectic merchandise. The chain expanded across California during the 1950s and 1960s, reaching San Francisco and opening stores from the San Fernando Valley to San Diego. It also created Columbus, a subsidiary selling imported decorator products in upscale malls. After financial difficulties, the company sold an 80 percent stake to Jack A. Levin & Associates in 1975. Thrifty Drug Stores became the majority owner in 1977, and Pier 1 acquired a reported interest in 1978. Under later ownership, store closures and merchandise changes followed. The chain was sold to Hong Kong-based owners in 1982, but financial problems led to widespread closures in 1985. Circuit City later opened at several former Akron sites.
The Akron’s story began on Sunset Boulevard in 1947 and soon grew beyond army-surplus goods into imported decor, clothing, plants, and other unexpected finds. This Double-Sided Keychain Charm makes a small, everyday tribute to a retailer that never fit the conventional department-store mold. Its journey through California, from Los Angeles to San Francisco and San Diego, reflects decades of changing shopping habits and retail reinvention. A thoughtful pick for Akron collectors, former shoppers, and anyone drawn to Southern California history.
The Akron, also known as Akron Stores, began in 1947 when Bernard Field and Hyman Fink opened the Akron Army & Navy Stores on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, selling mainly army-surplus goods. By 1950, the business had moved to 4400 Sunset Boulevard and was also selling to customers nationwide by mail order. In 1952 or 1953, it became The Akron, shifting toward imported goods, home furnishings, clothing, plants, and other eclectic merchandise. The chain expanded across California during the 1950s and 1960s, reaching San Francisco and opening stores from the San Fernando Valley to San Diego. It also created Columbus, a subsidiary selling imported decorator products in upscale malls. After financial difficulties, the company sold an 80 percent stake to Jack A. Levin & Associates in 1975. Thrifty Drug Stores became the majority owner in 1977, and Pier 1 acquired a reported interest in 1978. Under later ownership, store closures and merchandise changes followed. The chain was sold to Hong Kong-based owners in 1982, but financial problems led to widespread closures in 1985. Circuit City later opened at several former Akron sites.
Product features
- Acrylic construction with white base and double-sided print
- Compact size ~3.15" x 1.57" (8 x 4 cm); measurements may vary up to 1"
- Includes metal ring and short chain for secure attachment
- Durable, lightweight—made for everyday carry
- Manufactured product sourced from China; intended for adult use
Care instructions
- Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid any chemicals.
EU representative: HONSON VENTURES LIMITED, gpsr@honsonventures.com, 3, Gnaftis House flat 102, Limassol, Mesa Geitonia, 4003, CY
Product information: Generic brand, two year warranty in the EU and Northern Ireland
Warnings, Hazard: For adults
Care instructions: Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid any chemicals.