View details of this raise on Seedstage

Portland, OR

Expanding retail operations to support artists and small businesses.

• Retail Expansion: Tender Loving Empire is expanding into high-traffic retail spaces to increase its brand impact.
• Support for Makers: The company has paid over $20 million to artists and makers since 2007.
• Significant Growth: Tender Loving Empire has grown 13X in the last decade, adding $3 million in revenue since the pandemic.
• Airport Locations: The company operates stores at Portland and Seattle-Tacoma airports, securing long-term leases.
• Mission-Driven Business: Tender Loving Empire combines fair purchasing practices with in-house product design to support local economies.

Tender Loving Empire is expanding its operations to include high-traffic retail spaces, scale its e-commerce and wholesale channels, and enhance its brand impact. The company, which began as a small consignment shop in 2007, now operates seven stores across two states, including locations at the Portland and Seattle-Tacoma airports. With a mission to support artists, makers, and small businesses, Tender Loving Empire has paid over $20 million to the creative economy since its inception. The company combines thoughtful curation and fair purchasing practices with in-house product design to maintain strong margins while supporting over 500 makers.

The company has experienced significant growth, increasing its revenue by $3 million since the pandemic and achieving a 13-fold growth over the last decade. Tender Loving Empire aims to continue this trajectory by opening additional high-grossing stores and expanding its current verticals, such as its e-commerce site and B2B gifting service. The company is committed to creating a more equitable economy by supporting local artists and small businesses, ensuring they are paid fairly and their value is recognized. This fundraising effort seeks to further Tender Loving Empire’s mission of strengthening communities through responsible commerce.

Company Info

Tender Loving Empire operates retail stores supporting local artists and small businesses, focusing on community impact and creative products.

Tender Loving Empire is a Portland-based retail company that operates seven stores across the Pacific Northwest, including locations at major airports. The business focuses on supporting local artists and small businesses by offering a platform for handmade and creative products. With a strong emphasis on community impact, Tender Loving Empire has generated over $20 million for more than 500 makers since its inception in 2007.

The company combines retail operations with a record label, providing a unique blend of products and experiences. By maintaining high margins through in-house product design and thoughtful curation, Tender Loving Empire has grown significantly over the past decade. The business aims to expand further into high-traffic retail spaces and enhance its e-commerce and wholesale operations, continuing its mission to support the creative economy.