As of this morning, North Market shoppers will find a new (yet very familiar) face greeting them upon arriving through the main entrance to the building: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. The iconic original location for the rapidly growing business has relocated from the west side of the building to the east side of the building as a part of a larger ongoing renovation project at the North Market this fall.
“We were pretty happy with our original location, but we understood the renovation project had certain perameters and we’re not merchant that needs a new hood,” explained Charly Bauer, Director of Special Projects at Jeni’s. “So we wanted a space that was bigger and better, and we got a great space that is smaller and hopefully better. We’re excited that it was available and I think it’s going to be awesome.”
The new location has 75% of the square footage of the old spot, but Bauer says that their product lineup will remain unchanged and the only reduction in equipment is ‘behind the counter stuff’ that he says most customers won’t even notice.
“The counters in the new space are actually backed up a bit from the aisle, giving customers a little more room,” he added. “The crowds are wonderful, but occasionally cause some challenges, so we’ve created an opportunity to move people through the line quicker. ”
Prior to the relocation of Jeni’s, the space was previously home to Heil’s Family Deli, which quietly closed their shop recently after a 44-year run at The North Market. The stall has been empty only for a short time, but has been transformed to reflect the evolution of the Jeni’s “scoop shop” brand while still paying tribute to the essence of the North Market.
In other Jeni’s news, the company opened its first Chicago location last week to much fanfare. Lines stretched around the block and customers filled the new location for a highly anticipated taste.
“I got to be there for the opening, and I have to say that the number of people who came in that opening weekend and mentioned that they have connections to Columbus was impressive,” says Bauer. “Columbus touches a lot of people.”
To celebrate the North Market relocation, Charly will be joined by his wife Jeni Britton-Bauer on Friday from 4pm to 7pm to sell $1 scoops and have a little party.
“We’re really excited for all of the changes happening at the market,” adds Bauer. “This is just the beginning of a lot of great changes, which are really exciting for everyone. We can’t wait to see what The North Market looks like in a couple of months.”
More information can be found online at www.jenis.com.