Change of scenery: Local retail store moves across Main Street
Staff reporter
A new location and name change are among the plans of local business owners Brenda and David McGinness.
The McGinnesses own Kraft Korner and The Flower Shoppe at 404 E. Main, Marion. They plan to move their businesses in May to 329 E. Main, formerly Tax Plus.
Two factors prompted the decision — economics and location.
"We're moving to a smaller building in a great location," said Brenda.
She is anticipating a reduction in monthly expenses with a smaller building. The location is between two established retail businesses, which also may provide more customer traffic in the store, Brenda said.
Centre Lodge 147 currently is the owner of the building at Fourth and Main streets.
Business history
Kraft Korner/Casual Closet began in 1991 at 116 E. Main following renovations and improvements to the building. The businesses outgrew the space and moved to their current location in 1995.
While owning and operating Kraft Korner/Casual Closet, the McGinnesses purchased the building at 616 E. Main, renovated and improved that building, and reopened it as The Big Scoop.
The couple sold The Big Scoop in 2000.
The entrepreneurs purchased the building at 214 E. Main in 1998, renovated and improved that building, and reopened it as McGillicuddy's Restaurant.
In January, the couple decided it was time to close the successful restaurant which currently is for sale, and concentrate on their retail businesses.
After 10 years, the current Kraft Korner location has served them well, said Brenda, but an opportunity presented itself and the McGinnesses like challenges.
Focus of their retail business changed five years ago when they decided to discontinue the sale of clothing. A flower shop was added in 2003.
Remodeling plans
This fifth renovation project for the ambitious couple includes a new cooling and heating system, installation of display walls, construction of a store room, new carpet, and general cleaning of the building.
A walk-in cooler also is in the plans to be added for the flower business.
Improvements to an upstairs apartment and tenants will provide additional revenue which also was a factor in the decision to purchase the building.
On the retail side, Brenda plans to focus on sought-after "trendy" items, expand the bridal registry, wedding gifts, greeting cards, and other items wanted by her customers.
With the addition of new items, inventory that hasn't sold as well will be discontinued, she added.
"Anyone who wants spices, better get them soon," said Brenda, because when she sells out of them, they will not be reordered.
New items will include home accessories such as napkins, place mats, and table cloths and runners.
A garden line will be added to include bird feeders, lawn ornaments, and items for men.
"Upper-scale home decor and candles have already been added at the current location," said Brenda, which includes silks, tin wall baskets, and other items for the home.
Customers with a sweet tooth still can satisfy their craving with assortments of fudge.
Expansion of the flower shop will include silk arrangements, more fresh flowers, and green plants.
Brenda is a certified florist and provides Teleflora and FTD wire services.
Brenda, with husband David who works second shift at Moundridge, are excited about the plans.
"We're looking forward to a new location, new store, and new shopping environment for our customers," said Brenda.
