The Micro Market Midland: A Vision for Downtown Entrepreneurs
14 Jul 2020
Local entrepreneurs have found a home in Micro Market Midland - a community of business owners sharing a beautiful downtown retail space. The market was temporarily closed due to COVID-19, but has since reopened, taking safety precautions to protect workers and guests.
“We have a passion for local small businesses and Midland breeds an amazing group of entrepreneurs. What better way to support them than by offering entrepreneurs a space that’s downtown! So many cities have a beautiful downtown retail area and we wanted our town to have that too,” said Hannah Streun, co-owner of Micro Market Midland.
Micro Market currently has five permanent shops and one space that features different businesses every week. Those visiting the market can follow the scent of fantastic fragrances to Velvet Mesquite Designs where they will find gorgeous blooms and designer candles. Coffee lovers will enjoy meeting friends and drinking special brews at Cpl. Rays., while families and sweets lovers will enjoy afternoons spent at Cousin’s Creamery, a soft serve ice cream shop. For those in search of the latest women’s fashions and unique designs, Coco Bananas delivers, while K. Renae Salon can get you ready for a special occasion or make your hair look fantastic for every day. This combination of specialty shops has made the market a go-to destination in downtown Midland. Visitors range from those who office downtown, to those supporting the buy local movement, to visitors in search of an afternoon excursion. The market appeals to everyone.
Each shop is owned and operated by people living in Midland. The shops are by locals, for locals. Since each shop is individually operated, the proprietors can set their own hours and run their own space - ideal for entrepreneurs in search of freedom from the corporate grind. According to Hannah this is only phase one of a larger plan, so entrepreneurs interested in joining them should reach out.
During COVID-19 closures each shop received a financial blow, but the Micro Market Midland is here to stay. “Our shop owners took a hit, like everyone else, but also upped their hustle and found a way to make it work until they could resume business again! The community has shown support to these shops as well as others in town by shopping online, buying gift cards, ordering to go, using contactless delivery, and other options they came up with! We feel very blessed by our community,” Hannah said.
She continued, saying the Micro Market is in it for the long haul and will power through any hardships.
“We want our community to know that we are still here and aren’t going anywhere. We’re open for business and have really exciting new things coming up — there’s something for everyone! It’s truly an incredible experience at Micro Market.”