After much soul searching I have decided that it is time to open my first retail location. This is truly a very exciting step- to this point we've been behind the scenes, supplying our customers (stores) wholesale and did not at all make an appearance in the retail market (save for a few holiday bazaars a few years ago). After reading (finally!) the book "Chocolat" I thought there is definitely a benefit in having a charming little specialty food shop and be able to market my caramels, lollies and salts directly to those who like and seek out our products.
We will be opening our very first retail store in Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood- it is known for its independent and local artisan stores, unique shops and diversity of population. It is truly an ideal location for Das Foods store! Our store will be very small and located in Andersonville Galleria, which is known for featuring local artists. http://andersonvillegalleria.com/
It is a shared space retail store where one can find a variety of things- from locally made toffee to antiques and vintage clothing to custom made purses. I fell in love with the space after I walked in- and even the exposed brick wall reminds me of our own manufacturing and production facility. It is a home away from home for sure!
Over the next few weeks my talented colleague and Das Foods designer Sara (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Slim-Design/193485030680603) will be working on an awe inspiring design for our new space and I will update on the progress. I know that this space will be a piece of art: for starters it will have an Monet- inspired Mural, antique prints, cutting board, modern furniture and Indian brass wall sconce.
More in a few days...
