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Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet Expanding After 34 Years
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Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet, located at 1717 S. Decatur Blvd., is set to undergo its first expansion in three decades, starting later this month. Owner Doug Kays expressed that the indoor area has been consistently full, with vacancies opening up on a weekly basis, prompting the decision for expansion. Currently, the swap meet boasts 220 vendors with 505 booths and 20 available spots.
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Outdoor Expansion Plans Unveiled
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On September 28, Fantastic will be expanding its footprint outdoors with the introduction of a new event area named 702 Market, previously hosted at Arizona Charlie’s Casino. The existing 90,000 square feet indoor space will be complemented by three additional plots in the parking lot, measuring 34,000, 30,000, and 18,000 square feet respectively. Despite the property spanning 15.5 acres, only 3 acres are currently occupied by the building, leaving ample space for expansion.
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Easing Regulations for Events
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Fantastic had previously required approval from the Las Vegas City Council for outdoor events. However, with the upcoming expansion, the swap meet will no longer be constrained by these regulations, enabling easier facilitation of events. This outside expansion aims to provide opportunities for budding entrepreneurs to rent out spaces for events without the commitment of a full month.
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Supporting Small Businesses
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Kays emphasized that this move will benefit small businesses by offering more flexible rental options for outdoor spaces, particularly during weekend events. Referred to as 'incubator retailers,' these vendors will have the chance to kickstart their businesses in a supportive environment. The cost for renting outdoor spaces will be significantly lower than the monthly rates indoor vendors pay, offering a more affordable option for sellers.
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Future Plans and Approvals
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The expansion plans have already received approval from the planning commission and are slated for review by the City Council on October 16. This strategic move is set to pave the way for a new chapter in the history of the Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet, opening doors to increased opportunities for vendors and visitors alike.