Mad Max caters to cool cats

WASILLA — Many 20-something Alaska residents spend their evenings partying and wasting their days sleeping off the night before.

It’s a common routine that follows a long-awaited gift from the state Department of Motor Vehicles — a driver license that gains entry into bars and liquor stores. This cycle of party, pass out and party more may be a common routine for some, Max Reder is one 22-year-old using his time and name more productively.

Reder is owner of Mad Max’s Clothing Co., a retail business dedicated to the motorsports lifestyle. Whether a customer need a Slednecks jacket or wants to support the Local 907 Riders Union, Mad Max’s has the fresh, hip brands coveted by the young and semi-wild. The Frontiersman sat down with Reder recently for a question and answer interview.

Frontiersman: As a young man, only 22, do you sometimes get mistaken for being a teenage helper instead of the store’s owner, and has your age made opening your own business more difficult?

Max Reder: Oh, yeah. Every day people just think I’m an employee. And yeah, it’s been a little rough age-wise. Some people doubt you.

Frontiersman: Opening a business is a big financial risk. Are you naturally a risk-taker?

Reder: Financially, yeah, sort of. I don’t jump off cliffs or anything, but this is a risk. Before I even opened the store I did trade shows and saw it had potential, so it just went from there.

Frontiersman: What do you sell at Mad Max’s Clothing Co.?

Reder: Motor sports-related clothing and riding gear.

Frontiersman: Where are you from and why did you decide to open a business in the Valley?

Reder: I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. And my reason for opening up out here is because I see this town growing every year and I wanted to be a part of its growth.

Frontiersman: What did you do before you opened Mad Max’s Clothing Co.?

Reder: Before this I was in school. I went there to become an automotive technician, but after seeing what you have to go through, I quickly changed my mind.

Frontiersman: What made you want to open your own business?

Reder: Since I could talk I’ve wanted to open my own business.

Frontiersman: What future plans do you have for your business?

Reder: I would eventually like to open a few more locations around the state, but we will see.

Frontiersman: What is the best business advice you’ve ever received or what advice would you give to someone preparing to open a business?

Reder: I have got ton of advice, but what’s helped out the most is the tremendous amount of encouragement I have received from family, friends and especially the owner of Northern Border, Darcy Liska. She has been a huge help.

Contact Chris Gillow at chris.gillow@frontiersman.com or 352-2284.