News Release: 4/19/2024 Mineral Point Market

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 19, 2024
Contact: Kassi Blanchette
Email: marketmineralpoint@gmail.com
 

Mineral Point Native Returns to Launch Innovative Food Market
New Market to Occupy Former Mineral Point Medical Center Site on High Street

MINERAL POINT, WI – Exciting developments are underway in Mineral Point as plans for a new food market, poised to invigorate the local food landscape, are announced. The community has felt the absence of a local grocery since Point Foods closed in 2021, and the forthcoming "Mineral Point Market" aims to fill this void with a fresh, community-centric approach.

Local entrepreneurs, Brian and Kassi Blanchette, have acquired the properties at 104 and 110 High Street, currently occupied by the Mineral Point Medical Center of Upland Hills Health. With the Medical Center planning to relocate to a new facility near Dodge Street by fall 2024, the Blanchettes are coordinating with the Medical Center to ensure a smooth transition without disruption.

Project Overview
The building has six second floor apartments that have been vacant for years. The project will begin with immediate upgrades to the existing apartments to enhance community housing options. Once the apartment renovation is complete and the Medical Center has relocated, the project will move forward to demolish the exam rooms to convert the commercial space into a full-service market with a commercial kitchen.

"Our goal is to weave ourselves into the fabric of the community, offering a diverse array of high-quality products, locally-sourced as often as possible. We also understand there are different needs and levels of products, and will ensure there are multiple options at different price points" Kassi Blanchette shared. "The interim designation for the venture is 'Mineral Point Market', with a permanent name to be announced as progress continues."

The Blanchettes are dedicated to creating a market that not only provides essential grocery items but also features daily prepared foods such as soups, salads, and ready-to-go meals. An area for seating will encourage community interaction and enjoyment of the space.

Expertise and Background
Brian and Kassi have a combined two decades of business experience and have curated quality relationships in the industry and area. Kassi's experiences at Driftless Market and the Southwest Regional Planning Commission have furnished her with invaluable connections within the network of food and product producers in Southwest Wisconsin. As the lead coordinator of the Delicious Driftless Fare, Kassi collaborated extensively with numerous local food producers. Brian possesses a multifaceted expertise in the business domain, having served as a co-founder or key early-stage contributor in multiple startup ventures with several exits. His diverse experience encompasses various aspects of entrepreneurial leadership, strategic planning, and operational management. Brian was born and raised in Mineral Point and his family has a history in the area dating back to 1812. Brian and Kassi briefly lived in Mineral Point together in 2016-2018. They are moving back to the area to raise their son in the vibrant Mineral Point community surrounded by family and friends. 

Invitation to Local Producers and Community Members
The Blanchettes encourage local producers interested in featuring their products at the market to contact Kassi at marketmineralpoint@gmail.com. Community members with questions or who wish to get involved are also welcome to reach out.

The Blanchettes are enthusiastic about returning to Mineral Point to enrich the community and provide a unique shopping experience that caters to the needs and preferences of local residents.