‘Mercantile on Madison’ opens doors and opportunities for small businesses

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — One business is helping many businesses in Whiteville. South Madison St. has a new addition. 

‘Mercantile on Madison’ is a hub for small businesses who want to see their merchandise in a store front. 

The building is 22,000 sq. ft., currently offering close to 80 local vendors. 

The sky’s the limit, selling clothes, home décor, art, and so much more. 

The store will be open every day, excluding Sunday, with hours varying during the holidays. 

Camela Thompson is the owner of ‘Mercantile on Madison’ she said this is a great opportunity for small shops just taking off. 

“They can watch that vision grow because we’re doing the work for them,” Thompson said. “All they have to do is bring in their vision, their ideas, their products – and just grow. Hopefully they’re gonna grow so large that they grow out of my store and into their own store and fill up one of our mini stores that need new life in Downtown Whiteville.” 

Long-time Columbus County resident, Lynne Hewett, said this new addition brings back the meaning of shopping small. 

“It’s just so neat to come in and see the building. It’s Beautiful. But it still has the old feeling to it. It’s wonderful, a wonderful opportunity,” Hewett said. 

Thompson added they are still accepting vendor applications hoping to offer nearly 100 small business options.