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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
Thomas Carlyle, a Scottish essayist and historian, once called music the "speech of angels."
I agree. I love music, and I always enjoy talking to those who have strong musical ties. Merryl Martensen, owner of Mechanized Records in Salt Lake City, shared her passion for music with me during our recent visit. Merryl spent over 10 years working in music stores before starting her stint at Mechanized Records.
Mechanized Records started out as a tiny clothing boutique in 1992. It eventually moved into a bigger location and became a combination coffee shop and record store. Merryl met Jodi Nelson, who owned Mechanized Records, and when Jodi decided to sell it in 2003, Merryl purchased the business and has been running it ever since.
When she took over the shop, Merryl said it mostly carried records and CDs. However, while Mechanized Records still has both, she expanded to stock items such as clothing and designer toys. The toys have been a great addition because they've extended the store's reach into a new demographic. The shop is also a gallery for up and coming artists and regularly hosts art shows. Merryl offers free disc jockey lessons for girls and says they have been well received.
Technology advances have changed the way people buy music, as many now choose to purchase mp3s files instead of CDs. Although vinyl records are still one of Mechanized Records' specialties, the increased product selection of clothing and toys has helped keep the store afloat. The TRAX expansion has also been a boon because the Greek Town station right in front of the store has increased the amount of foot traffic.
Merryl does her best to maintain a high level of customer service. She hopes to help Mechanized Records continue to be a staple in the community, especially as more people discover its diverse and unique product collection.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
