Small Business Community takes a hit.

We were as surprised as many of you at the closing of 2 Lake Geneva storefronts recently. Fall brought the closing of an institution many have known and shopped for cheese needs, The CheeseBox of Lake Geneva after 75 years. And just this past weekend, Rose’s Market announced its closing as well.

It is never a good thing when an independent business closes in a community. I believe it deprives the residents of that community of a certain quality of goods, of the diversity of choices outside the big box landscape, not to mention revenue generated by payment of real estate taxes and sales tax dollars. Empty storefronts also discourage potential businesses from setting up in that community.

Small business gives back to a community by creating a resource for those individuals living in that community and should be supported by our honoring their commitment in any way we can! Yes, Brick Street Market is seeing a small bump of business as a result of these two closings, but if you are in business waiting for others to go out business in order for sales generation, you have it all wrong. The former owners of the Cheese Box visited our store and I know they shared our thoughts on service. You must know that what you provide to your customer has purpose, intent, interest and fun.  Starting, owning, and running a business is difficult at the top of good markets, and it isn't always the case that the owner is dedicated to consistent delivery of service to the customer. We exist to provide that service to the community, and our 'friends' know an honest delivery when they see it. I am proud of what we have accomplished here and delight in our being part of this historic downtown business community.

Their community will miss them, and we wish them well.