Although it was never meant to be permanent, word that The Mercantile in Doylestown Shopping Center was closing came as disappointment to many.
The innovative space that’s been offering local craftspeople a sprawling area to display their work for the past two years struck a popular nerve with shoppers and artists alike. But, in a recent social media post, owners of the retail center said it’s time to end the experiment.
“After long consideration we have come to the decision that our time of service to this incredible community will soon be coming to an end,” the announcement said. “When we created this temporary project, it was born out of a need to help artists, makers, crafters, and small businesses most severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We wanted to give them a safe and unique outlet to continue thriving during those incredibly difficult times. With this wonderful community’s continuing patronage, we successfully accomplished and even surpassed our goal!”
“I am very sad to hear of this. Your store is very inspiring. I often found myself getting lost while shopping to find myself. All of the products are so inspiring and everything you did for the community helped me regain focus during this difficult time. Please know that you will be missed,” wrote one commenter on Facebook.
Said another, “Thank you, thank you, thank you When our community was terrified, you opened your doors, to help, house, give, inspire, support, and spread hope. God bless & hold every vendor, maker, artist, dreamer, team member and supported.”
The Mercantile’s doors will close Jan. 22, according to the announcement.
What’s next for the 70,000-square-foot location is uncertain. The adjoining business, Essentials Salon and Day Spa, closed in August, leaving yet another vacancy in the Doylestown Borough center.
The Mercantile filled the void, after the Fox & Holly clothing store briefly moved in behind the Bon-Ton, which shuttered its Doylestown location in 2018.
In November 2020, representatives of the shopping center’s owner, Robbins Company, held an “informal presentation” with borough officials showing a five-story “luxury apartment” complex for the site.
“There’s been a complete evolution of retail,” said Sean Sablosky, a partner with Robbins and owner of Arrow Brokerage, the firm that leases the shopping center’s retail space, at the time.
He credited his team member Brooke Henningsen with creating The Mercantile.
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