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Retailer Profiles

May 8, 2026

How One Michigan Retailer Blends Tradition With Community

Grandpa Shorter's Gifts in Petoskey, Mich., is a multigenerational retailer that balances honoring its heritage with modern experiences.

exterior of a *Play store
January 30, 2026

More Than a Toy Store: One Owner’s Mission to Build Community Through *Play

*Play, owned by Ann Kienzle, operates five Chicago-area toy stores focused on community engagement and curated merchandise reflecting local culture.

Red Sled Market store exterior
December 19, 2025

Tales of a 34-Year-Old Pop-Up Holiday Market | Linda Cahan

Donna Anderson began the Red Sled Market from her own home before expanding to different retail locations each holiday season.

Bloomin Daisies Floral & Gift exterior
September 5, 2025

How This Nebraska Retailer Keeps Family Values at the Forefront

One part of business that’s important to the Michkas is feeling like a family — and they extend that feeling to their customers.

August 2, 2025

‘That’s Kind of the Secret Sauce’: Illinois Retailer Attributes Success to Making Connections

The Little Traveler in Geneva, Ill., is anything but little - it has 36 different rooms filled to the brim with products across a variety of categories.

J&B Home Decor Bar Display
March 30, 2025

How This Indiana Retailer Marries Celebration and Customer Service in His Store

Retailer Brad Priest takes celebrating life every day very seriously. He also takes the in-store shopping experience seriously, too.

February 2, 2025

Big Chances, Changes Have Paid Off for This Recent Retailer ARTS Awards Winner

If you had to sum up the story of Mustard Seed Market & Home in one word, “chance” may be the right word to use.

Looking into the store from the front door
August 13, 2024

This Oregon Retailer Takes Eco-Friendly to a New Level

From the custom built displays to the products available, see how Marley's Monsters in Eugene, Ore., is doubling down on reusable materials.