Mar 29, 2009

Martin family plans a new ventureBy TMCNet.com

Middlebury, VT — The economy is in bad shape. The Martins have heard the news. In fact, they sound tired of hearing it.

“We’ve chosen not to operate out of fear of our economy,” Gloria Martin said last week.

“Rather, we’re moving ahead, and we’re going to be ready for the good times that are coming.” “We’re kind of tired of hearing about the ‘fear factor’ from everybody,” Larry Martin said. “Somebody has to operate out of the positive.”

That positive approach has led the Martins to a new business venture. Middlebury General Store is set to open in mid- to late April. The store will be a neighbor to Rulli’s restaurant in the plaza along U.S. 20. It includes about 1,500 square feet, with about 1,250 square feet of showroom.

The Martins operate the Ace Hardware along Ind. 13 on Middlebury’s north side. The business has several different divisions — hardware store, lumber yard, floral shop, gift shop and a commercial division.

They also have a “hardware store on wheels” that caters to the Amish community.

The new project will be an old-time general store with country charm, according to the Martins. Gloria said Middlebury General Store will have “a collection of yesterday’s memories and today’s needs at value prices.” Gloria said she thinks people are looking for warmth, comfort and nostalgia. “In other words, kind of back to basics,” she said.

The word “general” lets the Martins be inclusive. “By saying ‘general store,’ that leaves us wide open,” Larry said.

The new store’s offerings will include hardware items, old-time candy, “I remember that at grandma’s house”-style toys, and home decor.

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