Portland Gear to open first store outside Greater Portland in Bend’s Old Mill District
Kelsey Merison
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon-based lifestyle brand Portland Gear is set to expand beyond its home market this spring, announcing plans to open a new retail location in Bend’s Old Mill District.
The store, which will occupy the former Wild Child space at 450 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 403, marks the company’s first brick-and-mortar location outside the Greater Portland area. The addition will bring travel gear, luggage, and apparel offerings to one of Central Oregon’s busiest retail corridors.
The company was founded more than a decade ago by Portland native Marcus Harvey. It began as a grassroots operation, with Harvey selling branded T-shirts and hats from the back of his van. You might recognize the “P” logo, which incorporates the outline of Oregon. It helped the brand build a loyal regional following.
“We started with apparel, but our water-resistant backpack really changed everything for us,” said Kameesha Rose, the head of people and operations for the company. “From there, we grew into luggage, travel bags, and everyday gear. We’ve always been rooted in community, and Bend felt like a natural next step for us.”
Rose said the company has been looking to expand beyond Portland and identified Bend, specifically the Old Mill District, as the right fit.
The new store, located between Sweet Tooth Candy Shoppe and Sunglass Hut, will feature the brand’s signature bags and travel gear alongside apparel. It will also include Central Oregon-specific designs available exclusively at the Bend location.
The Bend location aims to open by Memorial Day weekend. The company is currently hiring local staff and plans to host an official grand opening later this year.