Month: January 2019

Shopko Store Closing Begins

Leah Weycker

10% to 30% Off  – as our local store closes 

After filing Chapter 11 in mid January, Shopko has started to close it’s first ever Military Avenue store. The first signs to appear are 10%-30% off.

This hometown store was a staple in the neighborhood for over 50 years. “All the things I grew up with are leaving,” said a man standing in front of the store.

After over 50 years of business, changes in ownership, and adding hundreds of stores across the country, that is not a bad “success story” for a business that started with one store in April of 1962. Things change and so do our shopping habits. Retail business is a very competitive market and the model they were using was not working anymore. That said, they were a great business for many years. Based on visual observations, they were still successful with the pharmacy and eyeglass departments.

As they wind down over 100 store closings including the Military Avenue Store #1, you will see discounts. They set April 15th as the last day in our district. Others will be phased out as early as February 15th. 

In the restructuring allowed in a Chapter 11 filing, they will try to operate on a smaller scale and sell off aspects of the company. All of that will be watched and then the courts will determine if they are allowed to stay in business or will need to make plans for further closings and liquidation. That deadline is coming in the middle of March.

Change is hard and a lot of long time employees will need to find work. Those are two of the worst parts of Shopko’s closing. And, a lot of walking customers will now need to travel further but there are still accessible pharmacies.

If you have ideas or gaps in services you will face on Military Avenue, or if you have thoughts for a good business to located in that high traffic part of Military Avenue, let us know. Email to Director@militaryave.org.

Shopko closes its first ever store and others

Leah Weycker

As I discussed our Military Avenue wish list with the Green Bay Press Gazette, I knew that one of our long time businesses was struggling.

Shopko opened it very first store on Military Avenue in the early 1960’s and went on to expand across the upper midwest. It is sad to see the closing of the Military Avenue store, slated for April 15.

Changes in the shopping patterns of people has put pressure on retailers to change. With a booming pharmacy and eye glass center, Shopko couldn’t keep the rest of the store floating. As they close, I can only hope that the space they now occupy will become more vibrant and create a destination for people to come to Military Avenue.

Not only was the Shopko store a staple in our district, the Shopko Foundation was also a supporter of our farmers market. We will miss Shopko. It is unclear how the chapter 11 restructuring will play out but closing the Military Avenue store most likely means that they will not be located here anymore. The property is owned by a different party so they should be able to move ahead without any delays from the chapter 11 filing.

To read the wish list article, click the link below.

https://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/money/2019/01/13/2019-wish-list-leah-weycker-wants-clinic-restaurant-military-avenue/2490950002/?fbclid=IwAR1OzGgKVfG87DVEpdFjhvFj9utB02Vd7D3VAYofXOuicXyCo5W-dBuNO9c

To read Fox 11’s article, click the link below.

https://fox11online.com/news/local/green-bay/military-avenue-has-another-big-box-to-replace-with-shopkos-closure?fbclid=IwAR1-TvNVQERdcfOnK41NaLQbNqoFs3JMtVX1YxWNSJ46yL5Tl9FwW7IRfiQ

As for our wish list, I wish for a vibrant new business or activity venue to come into the district and fill some of the empty spots. A commercial kitchen with start up restaurants would be a great fit for the former Old Country Buffet space. And new businesses needing to test their product or service can find a short term lease on Military Avenue with our Pop-Up program.

Suggestions on what businesses are wanted in the district is helpful. Please send me your suggestions and I will pass them on to the property owners. director@militaryave.org is the email.

New Year – New You, Tea and Spa

Leah Weycker

Treat yourself in 2019!

The new QTea Premium Tea House and Sense Spa is now open!

The transformation of a traditional building (former auto repair) to a zen-like spa is done and it is spectacular!

From the beautiful glass walls outside to the relaxing interior, they created a true jem! The multifaceted business has a “treat” in store for all of your senses. Let me take you on a short tour.

Moon Gate

Enter the Tea Room. 

The “moon gate” is traditional in Vietnam. Walk through for love, happiness, and good fortune! Past the gateway you will be in a lovely, modern tea room with a huge assortment of teas and “by the pound” frozen yogurt (coming this summer). The rippled, disposable cups are a tactile experience with consideration of the environment.

I had a traditional Vietnamese coffee that was on the opposite side of bitter. Mellow and flavorful and definitely on my list of favorites.

Tea sets and supplies are also for sale. They display one glass pot that you can fill from the top, empty from the bottom, and reuse the teaspoon of dry tea three times before refilling. That is getting the most from your tea experience or just let them make it for you. Each flavor and type brings a unique taste experience either hot or cold, bubble tea or dry tea. A reward program will get you a deal on the 10th.

 

Loose tea flavors for you to smell, order and then sip and enjoy.
Several flavors of frozen yogurt including green tea, black tea and of course chocolate and vanilla are on “by the ounce” sale.

Hammer and Nails Spa

Move to the Hammer and Nails section of the spa for a private retreat with a neutral, earthy flair. This space can be used as a private spa party location. A TV is on the way for the ultimate GB football watching pedicure. Down the hallway are more private and couple rooms for massage and esthetician services. Each room is tranquil, clean and relaxing.

Salt room

Breath in the Himalayan Salt Room   

Then, the big surprize! A Himalayan salt ROOM. The wall of the room is stacked with bricks of Himalayan salt, zero gravity chairs and blankets. After standing in the room for five minutes, I could feel my breathing become clearer. Licking my lips, I could taste the salt in the air. This is on my friend list for places to go. A 45 minute retreat in this room is just what I need for my 2019 pleasure tasks.

Steam Room and Lockers

Just past the salt room is a mens and womens locker and steam room. A few minutes in the steam shower and then into the salt room would be a perfect sense awakening experience. They may need to wake you when your time is up because you can become that relaxed.

End at the Mani Pedi Room

Around the corner is the main salon with several chairs for manicures and pedicures. The circles and calm interior decor continues through this room. There has been no lack of detail in each design decision and lighting choice, and it shows.

Treat yourself

Book some time at the new Q-Tea House and Sense Spa in 2019. Or pick up a perfect couples gift for Valentines Day!

Q-Tea Premium Tea House and Sense Spa is located at 124 S Military Avenue on Green Bay’s west side.  (920) 490-7832 You can like them on Facebook.