Members of the Forest County Potawatomi Community (FCPC) gathered at the new fireside MARKET in Slinger for a preview event before the store fully opens to the public. The project is a key part of the Tribe’s continued focus on economic growth and diversification through Potawatomi Ventures and its subsidiaries.
Greenfire managed the construction for the new 9,500 SF store, developed by Sagewind Development at the corner of Hetzel Way and Highway 60. Working with The Sigma Group and NELSON Worldwide, Greenfire prepared the site for underground fuel infrastructure, and erected the steel-frame structure and fueling stations. The team has relied on trusted trade partners to maintain steady progress while keeping the site safe and secure.
The event began with drum circle songs by Fire Nation before remarks were shared. Kip Ritchie, CEO of Potawatomi Ventures, emphasized the significance of fireside MARKET as part of the Tribe’s strategy to diversify and strengthen its economic base. Brooks Boyd Sr., FCPC Chairman, reflected on the cultural value of projects like fireside MARKET that bolster economic growth for both Tribal members and the Slinger community.
Crystal Deschinny, Board Chair of Potawatomi Ventures, spoke to the collaboration between subsidiaries that brought the project forward. David Lloveras, Executive Vice President of fireside MARKET, highlighted the customer-focused features and the vision for a food-forward convenience store model. FCPC Tribal member and former Miss Potawatomi, Lovey VanZile and Thomas Boelter, Board Director of Potawatomi Ventures and Health & Wellness Administrator for FCPC shared their excitement for what new investments like fireside MARKET will mean to future generations of the community.
Tribal Elders and community members then toured the new facility, viewing the new café, an indoor-outdoor fireplace, fueling stations, EV charging ports, the drive-thru, walk-in cooler, food prep kitchens and curbside pickup lockers. Guests also sampled the fresh, made-to-order food items as part of the preview event.
fireside MARKET will soon open as the first commercial tenant in Merchant Village, a new development by Three Leaf Partners. For the Tribe, this new fireside MARKET model represents an investment in long-term economic stability and growth, as they look to expand into more markets across the State of Wisconsin.
