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News

ARTICLE

Date ArticleType
8/16/2022 2:06:07 PM Member News

Marion Merchant Lends Support to Artists, Veterans

The Marion Merchant will celebrate it’s opening with ribbon cutting on August 17 at 4:00 pm . The store which opened in April offers art for everyday people with a purpose.

Owners Rob and Laurie Klein are excited to join the Marion community and open a store which features quality products made by local veterans and artists trying to fuel their passion and break free from the everyday grind. Rob, who is now retired, spent 12 years on active duty in the Army before becoming a full-time member of the Iowa National Guard and retiring in July 2021. He returned to the workforce and quickly determined it wasn’t the right fit for him or his family. He began formulating a plan to continue service to community and fellow veterans while fulfilling a lifelong dream of owning his own business.

“I think building relationships and support within the community is something this world needs more of,” said Klein. “If I can bring people together and support those trying to make something for themselves, then I feel it’s my duty to provide that service.”

Drawing on his appreciation for the outdoors and renewable resources, Klein found his passion in woodworking because of its unique properties and durability to last a lifetime. He sees his shop as being a way for local veterans and artists to get their work to the public without the hassle of burdening logistics.

“Products will come straight from the crafter to the consumer,” added Klein. “Each artist offers a unique set of skills. We can use those skills to drive our passions and continue to be stewards of our future professions.”

Items for sale in his store include various types of handcrafted art, wood carved items including signs, displays, plaques, games and small furniture. Items will be as locally sourced as possible and made by people in the community.

The Marion Merchant, located at 1090 7th Avenue, will be open Tuesday – Friday 11am to 5pm, and Saturday 11am – 4pm. Learn more by visiting themarionmerchant.com or @themarionmerchant on Facebook.

Marion Chamber of Commerce
1070 7th Avenue | Marion, IA 52302
Tel 319-377-6316 
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  • About
    • Board of Directors
    • Our Team
    • Community Initiatives
    • Our Partners
    • Community Impact Award >
      • Community Impact Award Nominations
    • Marion Chamber Foundation
  • Events
    • Chamber Event Calendar
    • Community Calendar
    • Chamber Golf Outing
    • Annual Meeting
    • Oktoberfest
    • Uptown Marion Markets >
      • Vendor Information
    • Uptown Getdown
    • Chocolate Walk
    • Christmas In The Park
    • Submit an Event
  • News
    • Member News
    • Submit a Press Release
  • Directory
  • Resources
    • Business Support >
      • Small Business Revolving Loan Fund
      • Business Networking
      • Ambassadors >
        • Ambassador Application
      • Shop Where I Live
    • Professional Development >
      • Leadership in Action >
        • MLIA Application
        • MLIA WInter Lights Project
      • Marion Business Academy
  • Membership
    • Join the Chamber
  • Welcome
    • Welcome Center
    • Why Marion?
  • Member Login