A ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday afternoon marked the opening of Wild Earth Outfitters in Acorn Alley II.

The outdoor sports equipment store, located on the building’s lower level, is the first business to open in the newest Acorn Alley installment.

“This outdoor oriented store cuts across the population in appeal,” said Heidi Shaffer, Ward 5 council member, at the ceremony.

“It is a great contribution to the city we’re trying to build. We want people who come to Kent for school to stay because of places like this.”

Shaffer added she feels it’s about time the city had its own have outdoor-oriented store and that Wild Earth Outfitters will appeal to college students and professionals.

Tim Nightengale, owner of Wild Earth Outfitters, said the store caters to both men and women as part of his goal to provide service to a wide range of the population.

“The store isn’t male-centric,” he said. “We do not represent women in a negative fashion.”

Nightengale’s brand selection has been carried out in the same thoughtful manner. Shaffer said he’s made intelligent selections based on individual companies’ commitments to preserving the environment.

“When you’re in the outdoors you want quality, comfort and durability,” Nightengale said. “I have provided great product brands and selection.”

The products in Wild Earth Outfitters come from environmentally conscious distributors that Nightengale has researched. Many of the products are made from sustainable materials. Some of the footwear brands, for example, feature recycled soles and vegetable-dyed leather.

“I have everything invested in this,” Nightengale said. “You better come out and shop now.”

Contact Sarah Welch at [email protected].