Anthony Novachis has childhood memories of accompanying his father, John, to work at a men’s clothing store. “We’d go in before opening,” Anthony says. “I’d help vacuum, crush boxes and ticket clothing.” He never imagined he would one day walk in his father’s footsteps. But life unfolds in its own way, compelling some to pause and reconsider their purpose. In 2014, a pivotal year for the Novachis family, Anthony Novachis became the new owner of J. Novachis, a menswear retailer founded by John Novachis at 50th and France in Edina.
Father John Novachis grew up in Detroit, the son of immigrants. “My dad was a butcher and grocer, but also a clothes horse. He always wore a tie, even when butchering,” John says.
As a young man, John worked part-time at a Detroit area menswear store and recalls being determined to find a purple shirt after seeing the film West Side Story in 1961. After serving in Vietnam, John moved to Minneapolis and took a position with a local menswear store—a job he held for 35 years.
In 2006, John launched J. Novachis. “It’s my passion, something I’ve always wanted to do. I wanted to do it on my own and execute my own vision,” John says.
Photo of John Novachis courtesy of Anthony Novachis
John worked seven days a week to survive the economic downturn. “But it’s not really work, because I enjoy it too much,” he says. John’s a hugger with a wide smile. He’s known for joking with his customers, often thanking them for spending too much.
John is also a tremendous advocate of “the corner” known as 50th and France. “I’ve been here for over 40 years, and today it’s the best it’s ever been,” John says of the quality environment maintained by the 50th and France Business Association. “I love the other merchants and feel lucky to be in a high-end area,” he says.
The corner loves John back. In 2014, his longtime friend and landlord, Tres Lund, CEO of Lund Food Holdings, honored John with a merchant of distinction award. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing John for many years and look forward to every opportunity to interact with him,” Lund says. “Because of his endearing personality and uplifting spirit, he has a unique ability to leave an immensely positive and lasting impression with everyone on the corner.” Lund notes that history is not defined by buildings but by people, and he wanted to begin shining a spotlight on people like John, whose remarkable passion and merchant talent has helped define the 50th and France shopping district as a true destination. John says, “[Tres] put my plaque next to one for his grandfather, and I am humbled and honored” by the gesture.
Son Anthony Novachis had an established career in the entertainment industry. But his job required endless travel, making it difficult to be a hands-on parent to his two young sons.
And then, a year ago, his father was diagnosed with cancer and wondered what to do with his business. “I thought about it, about how I wanted a job that would make me happy,” Anthony says. “And my dad created such a wonderful thing here. It would be a shame not to see it continue.” So now, Anthony is once again vacuuming, crushing boxes and ticketing clothing—as the new owner of J. Novachis.
He says the transition has been humbling, amazing and challenging. Longtime customers come in seeking one of “John’s picks,” and Anthony must share the news of his father’s illness. “I’m also constantly thinking, ‘What would he do?’ ” Anthony says as he straightens jackets and arranges accessories in the shop.
Through this unexpected turn of events, father and son have experienced an enhanced relationship. “My dad’s constitution and character mean something different to me today,” Anthony says.
John smiles and says he’s happy to see his son follow through on his dream. “I’m happy for the store, the area and the customers,” John says. “Tony will create his own thing and it will be even better. I can already see it.”
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J. Novachis
3930 W. 50th St.; 952.927.8808
John Novachis passed away on February 6. Our thoughts remain with the Novachis family; members of the Edina community will miss this delightful local shop owner.
