BIG stories are happening in Baltimore right now.
We want to shine a light on our client, Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, who recently held a ribbon-cutting celebration for the reopening of Hollins Market. The market is reopening after a $2.1 million renovation.
“We want to preserve the historic architecture while creating a vibrant space for the 21st-century consumer,” says Baltimore Public Markets President & CEO Paul Ruppert.
Hollins Market has served the community since 1836. It is one of six public markets in Baltimore — the only public market system in the United States. (source: Baltimore FishBowl). The Hollins Market neighborhood is located in Central Southwest Baltimore. It’s full of rowhome-lined streets and is one of the most convenient areas of the city. Located near Downtown and the University of Maryland Biopark, the historic area is very diverse with neighbors of all backgrounds and a recent wave of younger people moving to the area. Residents enjoy an active community association, which sponsors monthly COP walks, movie and music nights, and an annual fall festival (Source: Live Baltimore).
In May 2023, Phase II of renovations kicked off, focusing on rebuilding seven stalls in the market shed. Additionally, Hollins Market is introducing a grocery store, launched by the Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, to address community needs for dry goods, pantry staples such as spices, and essential household products. Also, a new pop-up stall has been launched to support up-and-coming food entrepreneurs, backed by the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation.
“Through this renovation, we restored a building, we took a big step forward in restoring trust to trust in our neighborhoods and trust in the power of community to shape its own future,” said Mayor Brandon Scott before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. (Source: WYPR)
Connecting Baltimore’s past, present, and future
We love how these markets connect us to Baltimore’s history and present day. And it’s also incredible to see how each one reflects the flavors of our neighborhoods and communities.
There are 7 stalls open in the market, including these merchants:
- Freshly Seafood – serving fresh fish and some prepared dishes
- Nafasi Catering – rotating seasonal dishes using local ingredients
- K’s Chicken – with chicken prepared in a variety of ways
- MikksKakes – featuring baked goods like cupcakes
- Lauman’s Quality Meats – a butcher stand
- A pop-up stand with rotating local vendors (sponsored by the West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation).
- The Market Cafe and The Market at Hollins will offer fresh fruits, vegetables, pantry staples and dry goods
“Hollins Market is the heart of the business district and our community,” said Laura Dykes, president of the Hollins Roundhouse Association, in a statement. “Many of our community members don’t drive so access to meals and a grocery is critical. The new pop-up stall is particularly exciting to give small businesses that chance to get started and eventually move into brick and mortar space in the district. The renovation includes a new community space at the market where we can play chess and watch movies which is exciting.”
“As we celebrate the reopening of historic Hollins Market, we are doing more than unveiling a newly renovated space — we are reaffirming our commitment to building a more equitable Baltimore,” Mayor Brandon Scott said
Hollins Market is located at 26 S. Arlington Ave., Baltimore, MD. Come through and try out some local Baltimore flavor.
Photo Credit: Mayor’s Office, Baltimore City
Feature Photo Credit: Hollins Market Facebook page
Jess Watson is the CEO & Creative Director of Points North Studio. She's the co-organizer of Baltimore Womxn in Tech, a big believer in Baltimore city, and a pioneer of working remotely while traveling the globe.
