WORCESTER – Maker to Main in Worcester showcases fresh, local ingredients and products crafted by area makers and growers across the state and throughout New England.
Maker to Main owner Lynn Cheney said she and her staff always tell customers that the shop’s products are 95% local and 5% fair trade. She said they have a great relationship with the different local vendors and farmers.
Maker to Main sprouted from Lettuce Be Local which launched in 2012. Its Main Street storefront opened on Feb. 21, 2020, just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic touched down on the Worcester area.
Cheney said opening during the pandemic was difficult and getting some products to the store proved to be challenging, but it motivated her to build out the shop to the best it can be.
From the pandemic and the various challenges it presented, Maker to Main pivoted and jumped on the opportunity to offer online ordering.
Cheney said online ordering is still popular and convenient for many customers. The store’s online shop has live inventory and is always updating so customers can see what’s in stock when they’re ready to order
Browsing both in store and online opens Maker to Main customers to other small businesses throughout Worcester County and beyond.
Cheney highlighted its popular products from snack food to beer and cheese to fresh flowers. She said customers love the local beer selection and Popzup popcorn’s “Butter Me Up” flavor is among the most popular snacks in store.
Ultimately, Maker to Main wants to help grow the local knowledge of the local farm to store process and the importance of supporting these farms and other small businesses.
Maker to Main is located at 328 Main Street. The store is open seven days a week from 10 AM to 6 PM. For more information, visit the Maker to Main website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Lead image: Owner Lynn Cheney (right) with staff member Stephanie Hunter.