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CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly indicated the Klinkhammers were the owners of Central Avenue Mercantile. This updated version also includes additional details on future plans for 1902 Central Ave.
Biz Buzz shares business tidbits from across the tri-states. In addition to this update from Dubuque, we will feature business developments from Dubuque and Galena, Ill., in Tuesday’s edition.
A mother-daughter duo that previously operated a community retail space on Central Avenue soon will open their own business in a different part of downtown Dubuque.
Alice Klinkhammer and her mother, Vickie, will open Mercantile on Main at 962 Main St. in November. The pair formerly oversaw Central Avenue Mercantile, a community retail space at 1902 Central Ave.
Alice explained that the Mercantile on Main will place a strong emphasis on local makers and products.
“It is an artisan-based store,” she said. “Everything we sell is handcrafted or homemade.”
Similar to the space on Central Avenue, Mercantile on Main will offer booth spaces to tri-state vendors looking to sell their wares. The product selection will include everything from stained glass and paintings, to wreaths and flower arrangements.
Alice Klinkhammer’s photography studio, Resonating Moments Photography, alos will make the move to the 900 block of Main St., operating in a space beside Mercantile on Main. It had previously operated within the Central Avenue location.
Central Avenue Mercantile first opened in late 2019, and the Klinkhammers began operating the venture the following year.
A new vision is beginning to take root at 1902 Central Ave., according to building owner Tim Hitzler. A restaurant is poised to open within the structure in early January, as well as a significantly smaller retail space that will bring back the Central Avenue Mercantile name.
Meanwhile, the Klinkhammers believe they have found the perfect place for their new venture.
Vickie has noticed a steady influx of tourists perusing her block of Main Street. On top of that, Mercantile on Main is located in close proximity to large employers who bring thousands of workers downtown each weekday.
Weeks from opening, the excitement already is palpable.
“We have had people walk in and ask what we are doing with the building and when we are going to open,” Vickie said. “It’s great to see. I think we will have a much better traffic flow in this new location.”
Mercantile on Main can be reached at 563-564-3908.