The store gets pallet inventory — overstock, returned merchandise, discontinued items — along with consignment items. The new merchandise is purchased in bulk typically, allowing pallet buyers to offer a discount to shoppers.
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Much of the store centers on items for the home, decor, bedding, pillows, kitchenware, even some office supplies. There are decorative signs, kitchen towels, candles, mirrors, decorative storage containers, and popular cookie cutters with shapes of cat heads, dog bones, baby onesies, dancers, even a dinosaur. Items include a Liz Claiborne reversible comforter in a three-piece set.
“We’ve gotten a good response from people that have walked in,” said Theresa Thorsvig at the store Thursday.
Theresa Thorsvig, a partner in the business with Tracy Loerzel Carner, said the response from early customers has been positive and one item selling quickly is a cookie cutter in the shape of a dog bone. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
Thorsvig and Tracy Loerzel Carner, who owns Minnesota Cleaning Solutions, are partners in The Back Porch retail store venture.
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Carner previously had her Minnesota Cleaning Solutions business in the building before moving it out to Highway 371. The opportunity to create a new retail store was a combination of available space and an idea that has percolated for some time. Carner said she has wanted to do a store like this for a long time. She reached out to Thorsvig and they moved forward with The Back Porch.
Owner Tracy Loerzel Carner said she believes the store’s concept brings something new to the area and gives them a chance to pass on savings to consumers for new merchandise for a wide variety of home needs. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
Carner said she believes the concept brings something new to the area and gives them a chance to pass on savings to consumers for new merchandise for a wide variety of home needs.
Thorsvig said eventually they would like to add outdoor furniture and they are also working on making online sales available. Inventory is expected to change as new shipments come in.
Signs are now up for the Loidé Oils & Vinegars shop along Laurel Street. The 2019 Destination Downtown Business Challenge finalist could be open in a matter of weeks. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
In Downtown Brainerd, signs are now up for the Loidé Oils & Vinegars shop along Laurel Street. The business, owned by Lois Hensel, was one of the three finalists for the 2019 Destination Downtown Business Challenge. The new store is in the former Bead Box in the iconic Menk building.
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Loidé Oils & Vinegars, which originated in Nisswa, with a tasting bar and gifts. It includes artisan extra virgin olive oils imported from all over the globe and aged balsamic vinegars from Modena, Italy.
Loidé Oils & Vinegars could open in a matter of weeks. Look for more on the new store in next week’s Biz Buzz.
New activity promises a new enterprise in the former Crow Wing Food Co-op building on Washington Street. The expanded food co-op is open in its renovated facility on Laurel Street. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
Look for a new venture in the former Crow Wing Food Co-op building on Washington Street. Pink and white balloons fill the windows. The action behind the windows are hidden from view, but the words on the window say “pretty things are coming soon.”
A nail salon is moving into the former Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop at the corner of Washington Street and Northwest Fourth Street in Brainerd. Close-Converse was listing the location now with the new tenant. Erbert & Gerbert’s closed suddenly in 2018. The restaurant opened in June of 2009. The building has been home to a number of businesses over the years, including a Movie Gallery.
Jersey Mike’s Subs is now open in Baxter just off Highway 371 offering more options as it is nestled between Chipotle and Five Guys. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
Jersey Mike’s Subs recently opened in Baxter between Chipotle and Five Guys, adding to the restaurant options in the area.