New additions coming to NewBo Market

CEDAR RAPIDS - Now in its third year of operation, the NewBo City Market continues to adjust its programming and shopping options.

'NewBo still is in its infancy,” said Kristie Wetjen, NewBo's executive director. 'We are continually striving to improve our offerings,”

Over the next two months, NewBo will see the addition of three new, permanent merchants: Dumpling Darling, The Sausage Foundry, and City Melt. A portion of the market's interior was converted from vendor and event space to make room for those expansions.

NewBo Market can accommodate up to six more permanent merchants, depending on how much space each one takes up.

'We see expanding the number of permanent spaces as a way to provide opportunities for more startup businesses,” said Wetjen.

Steven Prochaska, owner of The Sausage Foundry, intends to open for business in late May. He said he's looking forward to operating out of NewBo.

'It already attracts the clientele I'm looking for: People who care about the sourcing of their food,” he said.

NewBo plans to revamp their farmers market this season by aiming for a 'block party” atmosphere. The market will now run every second and fourth Friday of the month from May to September, and new additions will include live music from local bands, outdoor food options, and a non-profit organization featured each week.

'We saw an opportunity with the farmers market: A chance to create a neighborhood event that is family friendly, provides great products and access to healthy food, while entertaining and engaging the public,” said Wetjen.

The market also will feature The Youth Market, offered in partnership between the Small Business Development Center, The Vault, Czech Village-New Bohemia Main Street District, and NewBo City Market.

The program will allow students ages 12 through 17 to develop and sell their own products at a booth.

'It's a great way for them to learn the basics of business and product development, as well as marketing and customer service,” Wetjen said. 'We are very happy with the accomplishments we have made, and will continue to create positive change within the Market and the neighborhood.”