New Canaan Olive Oil, a popular shop on Elm Street’s “50-yard line” for more than four years, will move into a shared commercial space on Main Street next month.
New Canaan Olive Oil owner Heidi Burrows with a gift basket. Credit: Michael Dinan
Heidi Burrows, the business’s owner, said her lease is up Dec. 31 and that she’s moving the retail shop into Against The Grain at 91 Main St.
There will be no disruption for customers, Burrows said.
“We expect almost everything to stay the same, just in a different location,” she said.
“We wanted to partner with another small business in town to benefit both of us. We think they have complementary products, so they have some really nice kitchen and gift items that will complement ours very well, and then we are also excited to use their space for events and private parties.”
Against The Grain owner Chris Meier at the Main Street shop. New Canaan Olive Oil’s offerings soon will line the wall behind him. Credit: Michael Dinan
Burrows said New Canaan Olive Oil in 2018 will offer workshops and classes such as on making vinaigrettes and marinades—stay tuned for a full schedule.
It wasn’t clear whether there’s a tenant lined up for the conspicuous commercial space at 98 Elm St. The property’s owner could not immediately be reached for comment.
Tucker Murphy, executive director of the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce, said the organization is a “firm believer in partnerships, whether that means the Chamber working with an outside company or business-to-business partnerships.”
“This is an example of two businesses getting creative to maximize the use of a great location,” Murphy said. “With a little space management, they’ll both be able to do very well.”
Chris Meier, who opened Against The Grain in the former Varum’s space last year, said that New Canaan Olive Oil will be able to promote the business on one of the front windows and will be able to avail itself of a large wall along the southern side of the shop.
“She has a product that doesn’t require a ton of floor space,” Meier said.
He added that he was eager to help Burrows find a new home, that she has a strong following and that customers will be able to avail themselves of ample parking in back of the shop.
Smart move…good luck to both of you.