The Hillsdale Market House will soon become the Hometown Hotspot as long-awaited renovations near completion.
“We’re really excited for the changes. Our goal is to make Market House the newest Hillsdale hotspot, which inspired the new name for the complex,” Boyd said.
The name, Hometown Hotspot, can be seen emblazoned on a brand-new sign in front of the store, which Boyd says he will use to advertise area events, including college sports, concerts, and art shows. It is all part of Boyd’s pursuit of a more community-centered store.
“We’ve been in this community for 75 years, and we appreciate the service we receive from the college and the Hillsdale area,” Boyd said. “This is our way of giving back.”
Although construction delays have elongated the project’s timeframe, owner Brett Boyd is confident renovations will be fully completed by July 3.
“A lot of progress has been made even though we are keeping the store open and running during construction,” Boyd said. “Our next step is completing the Anytime Fitness, Biggby Coffee, and bakery, which should be finished within the next few weeks.”
Boyd explained construction on the Anytime Fitness center includes cleared-out space and minor plumbing; once construction is completed, the next step will be accommodating Nash Drugs and Biggby Coffee.
The expanded bakery and deli will have to wait until the Department of Agriculture grants approval within the next few weeks, and the salad and soup bar will be finished by the end of February.
Market House human resources manager Jan Hutchins says she has noticed an excitement among customers shopping around the renovations.
“We’re receiving positive, good comments from the customers, and they’ve voiced much interest in the Biggby and Anytime additions,” Hutchins said. “It’s a big change for all of us, and the customers have been very receptive.”
Hutchins added that Market House’s impact on the community extends further than many realize. Their partnership with Spartan Brand foods allows them to keep food affordable, and their loyal customer base, which they’ve largely kept since opening in 1941, appreciates what they offer to the community.
The employees of Market House have been handling the renovations well, according to Hutchins, who says they have been upbeat, positive, and helpful in light of the construction throughout the store.
“Their help has allowed us to continue to serve customers in a timely manner,” Hutchins said. “We’re all looking forward to the new customer faces.”
Boyd wished to extend his gratitude to the members of the community who have helped with the construction, planning, and overall renovation process, and encourages members of the college and city visit the store during and after renovation to see the changes and take advantage of the new facilities.
