Main Street Market Conroe closes for good

**Main Street Market Conroe Closes Its Doors, Leaving a Void in Downtown Retail Scene**

CONROE, TX – Main Street Market Conroe, a beloved hub for local artisans and small businesses, officially ceased operations on February 29, 2024, closing a chapter on its vibrant presence in historic downtown Conroe. Owners Mike and Tiffany Sather had announced the permanent closure on February 3, citing personal reasons that included a desire to simplify their lives, dedicate more time to family, and explore other entrepreneurial endeavors.

Located at 327 N. Main St., the 10,000-square-foot market was more than just a retail space; it was a cornerstone of downtown Conroe’s revitalization efforts, especially since its opening in September 2020. The market provided a unique platform for over 70 local small businesses through its “group booth concept,” allowing them to operate with lower overhead and a shared community atmosphere.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision for us,” said Tiffany Sather in a recent statement. “Main Street Market truly became a labor of love, and we’re so proud of the community and the businesses it fostered. However, the unique challenges of managing such a diverse ‘group booth’ model, alongside our personal goals, made it clear it was time to step back.” Mike Sather echoed her sentiments, emphasizing their commitment to Conroe while seeking a better work-life balance.

The market’s closure has sent many of its independent vendors scrambling to find new homes for their crafts and products. For entrepreneurs like Sarah Jenkins, owner of “Prairie Rose Designs,” the market was her first physical retail presence. “Main Street Market gave me a chance to connect with customers in a way online sales never could,” Jenkins lamented. “It’s sad to see it go, but I’m determined to find a new pop-up location or partner with another local shop in Conroe.”

Another vendor, Mark Chen of “Conroe Woodworks,” expressed gratitude for the market’s support during its tenure. “The Sathers created an amazing ecosystem for small businesses. While finding a new space is a challenge, the network I built there is invaluable.” Many vendors have taken to social media to announce their new locations or participation in upcoming local markets, urging the community to continue supporting them.

Despite the market’s closure, the Sathers remain deeply invested in Conroe’s business landscape. They continue to own and operate two popular downtown establishments: Pacific Yard House, a lively restaurant and live music venue (https://www.pacificyardhouse.com/), and The Table at Madeley, an event space and restaurant (https://www.thetableatmadeley.com/). Furthermore, Mike Sather maintains his influential role as the Vice President of Economic Development for the Conroe Economic Development Corporation (https://www.conroeedc.org/), working to attract and retain businesses in the city.

“Main Street Market played a vital role in animating North Main Street and drawing visitors downtown,” commented Danielle Scheiner, Executive Director of the Conroe EDC. “While its specific model will be missed, we are confident in the continued growth and vibrancy of downtown Conroe. The Sathers’ ongoing contributions through their other businesses and Mike’s work at the EDC remain invaluable.”

Regarding the 327 N. Main St. building, a historic structure that once housed various businesses over the decades before its transformation into the market, the Sathers have indicated plans to lease out the substantial commercial space. With 10,000 square feet available in a prime downtown location, there is considerable interest in its future use, though no new tenant has been announced. The hope is that a new business will soon emerge to fill the void, contributing to the evolving tapestry of downtown Conroe’s commercial district.