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The Wisconsin Department of Commerce recognized the best downtown
revitalization projects of 2008 at the 19th Annual Wisconsin Main Street
Awards
on April 24, 2009 in Wausau, WI.
"These awards honor the many great Wisconsin Main Street Communities and
the efforts of their volunteers, business and property owners to restore
local economic vitality," said Department Commerce Secretary Richard J. Leinenkugel.
Best New Business: Chain/Franchise
This award recognizes an outstanding new downtown business that has opened
and is either part of a chain or franchise. Nominations were judged based on
the impact it has had on its respective downtown and how it has strengthened
the downtown business mix.
Lillians
of Rice Lake: Honorable Mention
Lillians, "The hippest shop in town!", has taken Rice Lake by storm. The Lillians retail concept offers ridiculously affordable, designer-inspired
handbags and accessories, but is open just four days each month. That's
correct... four days. On the second Thursday thru Sunday of each month,
shoppers line up outside the door. Once inside, the atmosphere is upbeat,
fun, and filled with excitement and laughter, even including refreshments and
music. This is "experience shopping". It is high touch, high energy and high
excitement. Each month brings 600-800 new items of merchandise, and there is
nothing over $50. Lillians is the brainchild of two sisters who traded the
12-hour day corporate scene to create a hip, chic franchise for women. The
owner, LaVonne Kimmes, is the embodiment of glam, energy and enthusiasm,
which brings clients back month after month. And this steady steam of
customers also visit other downtown businesses. Congratulations Lillians!!
Left to right: LaVonne Kimmes, Kathy Wellsandt, Shelly
Schoening at the Rice Lake Lillians.
Shopko Express, Green Bay was the winner in this category. They are in
a $4.5 million building and is the first ever urban Shopko Express store.
This new store serves as an anchor for the Broadway District and employs more
than 25 people. |
