The Putney General Store is the iconic cornerstone business in the heart of downtown Putney. Established circa 1796, it is the longest operating general store in Vermont. Rebuilt by the community after a devastating fire, the two-story post and beam structure is owned by the Putney Historical Society and has been leased to proprietor/tenants.
For the past fifteen months, the Putney Historical Society has been the proprietor with volunteer, non-profit management of the store in order to reflect on the needs of the Putney Community and the role of the Putney General Store. With inventory currently around $50,000 and using only the 2300 sf of the ground floor, the store grossed close to $900,000 in the first year and is on a healthy and steady growth path to hit $1 million in the second year.
Now it is time to find a professional with experience who will aggressively manage the store and possibly expand to use the beautiful 2500 sf 2nd floor space. There is currently seating for about 25 with the potential for expansion upstairs.
There are many directions in which the Putney General store could be taken. What is clear from the many conversations, panels, and meetings with Putney constituencies over the last year, is that the community wants the store to continue to be the community crossroad. The potential is high to use the elevator-served upstairs to increase sales with varied products and services that allow people a place to gather. Ideas range from an espresso bar upstairs with expanded general goods around the edges or a local art and craft showcase. There is nostalgia for a store that offers light hardware, children’s toys, and more pharmacy products. People appreciate a place where they can use Wi-Fi to work with a coffee, chat with their neighbors, but also grab a mouse trap or a light bulb. Parents visiting students at the town’s three residential educational institutions as well as the many summer and fall tourists come in looking for Vermont coffee, local info and products that reflect Vermont.
The thriving business is currently for sale. The Putney Historical Society is looking for a new proprietor/tenant and is happy to work with potential operators to ensure their success in serving the community and growing the business. Please stop by or call (802-387-4692) if you, or someone you know, are interested.