More Than Just a Building

A Letter to Our Team, Clients, and Community

By Evan Kay

At the end of June, we officially moved out of 3721 W. Michigan Ave. in Lansing—a decision thoughtfully made and months in the making. The move itself was smooth and went forward without major hiccups (Shout out to TN members Kingsley Moving and Lansing Junk Removal for their part).

I’d known since last December it was the right choice for Trade Network. But when the last box was loaded onto the truck and I slid the keys through the mail slot, the emotions I’d been expecting finally landed—this was really happening. I’ve poured a big part of my heart into this business, and that office has profoundly shaped me as a leader. I’ll miss the people and the stories, but I won’t miss the square footage—and that feels exactly right.

Growing up in a family business means my memories at that office go back decades. In hindsight, it’s no surprise that Trade Network became my career—it’s something I’ve always enjoyed and carried with me.

When I was about seven, I even launched a “kid-version” of Trade Network with my friends, complete with homemade newsletters. I printed and distributed our own scrip to cousins and friends, and brokered deals in Hot Wheels or whatever else we had lying around.

Even now, I still believe bartering should be simple, not complicated—the concept of Trade Network ought to be as easy to explain to a business owner as it is to a third grader.

As a teenager, I remember lobbying our appointment setter, Carolyn, to sign up Legends Sports & Games whenever she could. (Lou Brown—if you’re reading this, the door’s still open!) And when I started working at Trade Network, the day-to-day lessons were invaluable—but the real education came from the conversations and mentorship I shared with my brother Bryan and my dad, Gary.

Over the years at our office, the building was never dull! Some neighbors were downright quirky, and at the least added a splash of color to the workweek, while others—like Shumaker Technology Group and A-to-Zen Cleaning—became trusted allies we could brainstorm with or lean on at a moment’s notice.

I’m grateful to every employee who came and went. Each brought a unique spark, stayed long enough to leave a lasting mark, and helped shape Trade Network into what it is today. It was an honor to watch team members like Sarah, Megan, Joslyn, and Gabe grow in their roles and continue to do great things after moving on. Even now, Keya—who joined us in 2023, earned her master’s from MSU with honors, and kept growing here—embodies that spirit. Next month, she heads to a terrific new role in Chicago, and that’s exactly how it should be.

To every client who shared a challenge, a laugh, or a trade—thank you for being part of the ride. Each moment reminds me that Trade Network’s true value lies not in drywall, but in people.

Q: What is Trade Network’s New Mailing Address?

A: 6255 28th St SE

Suite E

Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

Q: How do I shop for products now that the office does not have a showroom?

A: Our barter store isn’t going away, it’s just moving online! Our online platform allows you to checkout just like you would on any other website, but with one key advantage: your not spending your cash! It’s very simple once you get the hang of it, and has become a very popular option for busy business owners. We also made a brief tutorial of how to purchase items on trade online.

Have another question? Email barter @tradenetwork.org or call us at (517) 886-8900