“Non-essential” specialty retail was hammered by the global COVID-19 pandemic. From fabric mills and factories, to distribution centers and stores — different parts were shut down at different times for several months, resulting in dozens of bankruptcies and tens of thousands of layoffs and going-out-of-business sales. Episode 1 introduces the pandemic’s impacts; explains the role that Columbus, Ohio plays in the past, present and future of the industry; and makes the case for watching this episodic series. The future of specialty retail is up for grabs. Are you ready?