March 29, 2024

Chamber to host first-ever Open Store Front event

Are you looking to start a business but don’t know about what kind of properties are out there? Osceola Chamber/Main Street (OCMS) has an event for you.

The first-ever Open Store Front event is planned 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 2, on the square.

“It’s an idea that we got to try to help showcase some of the open spaces downtown,” said Derek Lumsden, OCMS executive director. “We get a lot of calls from potential business people who say, ‘I’d like to start a business. Do you know a place we could look?’”

He added, a lot of times the chamber can provide names, addresses and phone numbers, but they either can’t connect to the property owner or that property owner doesn’t live in Osceola.

Open Store Front

A solution to the problem was working directly with the building owners to try to get those spaces open, and then touring prospective store owners through them.

“So, they could see the potential of the space. Maybe this space is too small or this space is just right,” Lumsden said. “If we could change a couple of things and hopefully get them in touch with the property owner … or representative, and then that way, they have someone to talk to about what they can do.”

Walking tours during the event will start at OCMS, which is located at 115 E. Washington St., and continue through the heart of downtown Osceola. Light refreshments will be available.

For more information, contact Lumsden at 641-342-4200 or email ocms@iowatelecom.net.

“Hopefully, word will get out there to people who do come, say, ‘Hey, I know this person who would like to start this business, they just are lacking a space.’ And then, maybe they can come down and take part in it,” Lumsden said.