Three once-struggling venues in Illinois, Washington, and Texas were featured in news reports this weekend — each was described as “re-opening” or “revitalized.” And each had a success story to tell.
The Whitewright Trade Days in Whitewright, Texas faced some challenges after the death of its market manager. But now under new management, business is growing. According to a news report from KXII.com, “ The land owned by the American Legion is becoming a busy site once again. Vendors increased from 32 at the April Trade Days to more than 80 this weekend. Managers say they hope to see more than 100 vendors at the June Trade Days.”
Brindle’s Marketplace, an indoor flea market in Camano Island, Wash., also struggled after a death. According to a report at HeraldNet, “After her husband died, building owner Bonnie Brindle transformed the marketplace into a restaurant, Brindle’s Bistro, which enjoyed a one-year stint until the economy came crashing down. At first looking to sell, she turned back to the marketplace idea late last year.” Now the market is running year-round with 70 vendors.
And a news feature in the Chicago Sun-Times described how a former amusement park, called Santa’s Village, is also getting a second chance at success. The site now hosts a new flea market, The Dundee Expo, in East Dundee, Ill., which opened last summer. The site landlord is putting some effort behind the old park, gradually opening more attractions. “One by one, we’re kind of reopening things,” said Patrick O’Connor of landlord Sterling Bay Companies LLC.