If you’ve ever driven down Summer Avenue in Memphis, you know it’s a bit of a sensory overload. There are neon signs for taco trucks, old-school motels, and more pawn shops than you can shake a stick at. But there is one spot that looks like a nondescript warehouse from the outside that has been a literal goldmine for locals since 1986.
We are talking about Jun Lee Trading Company.
Honestly, if you didn't know it was there, you’d probably drive right past it. The building at 4044 Summer Ave isn't exactly screaming for attention with flashy digital billboards. In fact, for decades, it was housed in a spot with boarded-up windows and a back-entrance parking lot that felt like a secret handshake just to find.
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But inside? It’s a total explosion of color, sparkle, and chaos in the best way possible.
The Secret World Inside Jun Lee Trading Company
Most people think of "trading companies" as these massive, soulless logistics firms handling shipping containers at the port. Jun Lee is the opposite of that. It’s a family-run operation that has survived for forty years by being the "everything store" for anyone who needs to look like a million bucks on a budget.
Walking through those doors is basically like stepping into a treasure chest.
They specialize in accessories. But that word doesn't really do it justice. We’re talking about floor-to-ceiling displays of costume jewelry, rhinestones that could blind you if the sun hits them right, and a selection of hats that would make a Kentucky Derby attendee weep.
What You’ll Actually Find on the Shelves
It isn't just cheap trinkets. While they have plenty of $2 bracelets, they also stock legitimate sterling silver and higher-end pieces. Here is the weird mix that makes the place so legendary:
- Prom and Pageant Gear: If there is a high school dance in a 50-mile radius, the kids are at Jun Lee. They have the tiaras, the massive statement necklaces, and the evening bags.
- The Luggage Section: This is one of those "if you know, you know" things. People come here specifically for durable, affordable suitcases and laptop bags.
- Wholesale Vibes for Retail Buyers: Technically, they are listed as a wholesaler. But they’ve always been open to the public. This means you’re getting prices that feel like you’re getting away with something.
- Church Hats and Sunday Best: The hat collection here is massive. We are talking wide-brimmed, ornate, feathered pieces that are staples for Memphis church culture.
Why They Moved (And Why It Mattered)
For about 32 years, Jun Lee Trading Company was a fixture at 3397 Summer Ave. It was a landmark of sorts, even if it was a gritty one. Then, around 2019, they made the move to their current spot at 4044 Summer Ave.
Moving a business after three decades is a nightmare. Period.
Especially when your inventory consists of roughly ten million tiny earrings and delicate necklaces. But the move was a sign of growth. The shop is now run by the next generation—Angie Lee and her family—keeping the legacy of the founders alive. Lauren Kim, whose parents started the business back in the mid-80s, has been vocal about how much the community means to them.
It’s one of those rare Memphis stories where a "small" business isn't really small at all; it’s an institution.
The "Wholesale" Misconception
Here’s where it gets kinda confusing for new shoppers. Is it a wholesale warehouse or a boutique?
Technically, Jun Lee Trading Co., LLC is registered as a wholesaler and distributor. In the early days, they primarily supplied other smaller shops. However, they realized pretty quickly that the average person wanted in on those prices.
They don't require a tax ID or a bulk order to shop there. You can walk in and buy a single $5 tie or a pair of $1.95 plastic bracelets. That "borderline wholesale" pricing is exactly why they haven't been crushed by Amazon or big-box retailers. You can’t get the "Jun Lee experience" through a screen. You have to dig through the bins. You have to feel the weight of the necklaces.
What Most People Get Wrong
People often assume that because the prices are low, the quality is "disposable."
That’s a mistake.
While they certainly sell costume jewelry intended for a one-night event like a wedding or a prom, they also have pieces that regulars have owned for a decade. The trick is knowing what you're looking for. If you go in expecting a Tiffany & Co. experience, you're in the wrong zip code. If you go in looking for a $15 sterling silver ring that won't turn your finger green, you're in heaven.
Navigating the Shop Like a Pro
If you’re planning a trip, don't just rush in. It's overwhelming.
- Check the Hours: They are generally closed on Sundays. They usually run 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM the rest of the week, but Summer Avenue traffic can be a beast, so plan accordingly.
- Look for the Labels: They have a huge variety of materials. If you have sensitive skin, hunt for the sterling silver sections specifically.
- Bring Your Outfit: Seriously. If you’re shopping for a wedding or a pageant, bring the dress. The lighting inside is bright, which is great for matching colors exactly.
- Ask for Help: The staff, including Angie Lee, are experts. They know every inch of those crowded aisles. If you describe a specific shade of "seafoam green" for a scarf, they’ll likely point you to the exact rack in seconds.
The Actionable Takeaway
If you are a boutique owner looking for stock, or just someone who needs a gift that looks expensive but costs less than a lunch at Huey's, Jun Lee is your spot.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Location: 4044 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN.
- Parking: Enter through the back if the front looks crowded.
- Strategy: Give yourself at least an hour. You cannot "pop in" to Jun Lee. The sheer volume of inventory requires a bit of a scavenger hunt mindset.
At the end of the day, Jun Lee Trading Company represents a slice of Memphis business history that hasn't changed its soul, even as it changed its address. It remains a testament to the idea that if you provide value and variety, people will find you—even if your windows are boarded up and your sign is small.