Black-Owned Businesses Powering Independence Avenue

Independence Avenue isn’t just a street — it’s a heartbeat. From fresh fades to family-built storefronts and one-of-a-kind gifts, Black-owned businesses along the avenue are helping shape a stronger, more connected Northeast community. This month, we’re spotlighting three of those anchors: World Mart, Ted’s Barber Shop, and Furniture USA & Appliances.

World Mart

📍 2633 Independence Ave

Owned by Shay, World Mart has been a family-run business for over a decade. The shop is built around one idea Shay lives by: a true “one-stop shop” for the Northeast community.

From clothing and shoes for men, women, and kids to accessories and unique finds, the store makes style accessible and affordable. Their signature? Custom gift baskets. Customers can build baskets by hand, choosing anything from beauty products to designer accessories — with Shay and her team crafting 10–15 baskets a week, and even more during the holidays and spring season.

On weekends, the shop hosts Dollar Deals Days every Saturday and Sunday, where select bin items are just $1 — ranging from everyday workwear to formal dresses for prom or weddings. Coming soon, they plan to launch a monthly “Create Your Own Basket Day,” inviting the community to design personalized gifts on the spot.

“We’re here to grow and be a part of the community,” Shay shared. “We want to show that quality can be affordable.”

Ted’s Barber Shop

📍 2631 Independence Ave

For more than three decades, Ted Davis has been doing more than cutting hair — he’s been building relationships. With 37 years in the barbering game and 17 years on Independence Avenue, Ted is a familiar, trusted face in the neighborhood. Before opening here, he worked at Oney’s Barber Shop near 55th & The Paseo, bringing his craft to communities across the city.

Ted made history when he was recognized by Mark Funkhouser as the first Black-owned barbershop on Independence Avenue. In 2005, after suffering a major stroke, doctors told him he might never walk or cut hair again. Fifteen years later, Ted stands behind the chair — proof that resilience is real.

“I cut everyone’s hair — Black, white, it doesn’t matter,” Ted said.
“My favorite thing about Northeast? The people. Everywhere I go, folks greet me.”

Ted’s Barber Shop is more than a place for a fresh fade — it’s a community hub where everyone is welcome.

Furniture USA & Appliances

📍 4622 Independence Ave (Independence & Elmwood)

Owned by Emmanuel Okoye, Furniture USA & Appliances brings affordable home solutions to Independence Avenue. While the business is newer to this location, the store has been serving Northeast shoppers for over twelve years — first on Truman Road near Prospect — and Emmanuel continues that commitment by living right in the South Indian Mound neighborhood.

Furniture USA specializes in budget-friendly furniture and used appliances, making it easier for families to furnish their homes without breaking the bank.

“We offer all types of furniture and used appliances for people looking for a bargain,” Okoye said. “This store fits the demographic on the Avenue.”

Emmanuel also values the international, multicultural energy of Independence Avenue — and the honesty of his customers.

“People are super friendly here and straight up about what they can afford.”

🕘 Open six days a week | Corner of Independence Ave & Elmwood

Why These Businesses Matter

These three Black-owned businesses don’t just operate on Independence Avenue — they invest in it. They create jobs, provide affordable goods and services, and build relationships that turn customers into neighbors. Supporting them means supporting the culture, history, and future of Northeast Kansas City.

So the next time you’re on the Avenue, stop in. Get a haircut. Build a gift basket. Furnish your home. Every visit helps keep the heart of Independence Avenue beating strong.