“This is my heart, my city,” said Colonial Market co-owner Daniel Hernandez during the press release for their new location in the Jordan Neighborhood of North Minneapolis.
Daniel and his business partner Abraham Mena joined WMI President David Wellington, Mayor Frey, Ward 4 Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw, and Ward 5 Council Member Jeremiah Ellison at the site of their new location on Tuesday, July 30 to announce their.
Daniel, a self-proclaimed proud Afro-Mexican Minneapolis local, animatedly discussed the plans to bring fresh meats from Wisconsin and Minnesota, Grade A produce, ice cream, and restaurant dishes to the corner of Penn and Lowry Avenue. His vision is to turn the building into a vibrant gathering place for the community that everyone can be proud of, stating that Colonial Market will be a “one-stop shop” easily accessible via bike, walking, and public transit.
Daniel expects Colonial Market to introduce approximately 40 jobs to the community, from the interior construction work to the expected early-December grand opening. Colonial Market’s leadership envision this being a place where Jordan Neighborhood locals work, with the goal of keeping money and jobs in North Minneapolis, citing competitive pay and health benefits for their employees.
In addition to this new location at Penn-Lowry Crossing, Colonial Market will be opening a location at the Hi-Lake Shopping Center in September to make a total of four locations, with plans to open three more locations in the next few years. Daniel hopes this will be a lasting, multi-generational investment in the community.
Wellington Management purchased this land in 2006 and developed the building for Aldi, who resided in the space for 15 years. We are pleased to partner with the City of Minneapolis and Colonial Market to revitalize the building and fill the gap that was left after Aldi’s departure from the neighborhood.
There are many reasons to be excited about the future of the North side, and WMI is proud to be a part of what’s to come. We have available space throughout the Twin Cities and Metro Area; if you’re interested in joining this community, don’t hesitate to reach out!
