For some time now Kimberley residents have observed the empty Fields Building and attached Annex in the Platzl with much discussion as to what might help bring it back to life.

While there have been many ideas and suggestions over the last few years, it wasn’t until last June that things started to change when Denai and Jarret Bell boldly breathed life into the annex when they opened their General Store, Arrow & Axe.

This popular local store is steeped in great finds all designed with a mountain made lifestyle in mind.

The Bells were joined this fall with the opening of Talaria Footwear & Adornment as one of their neighbours. It has been a number of years since the Kimberley /Cranbrook area has had a dedicated shoe store and owner Celeste Needham saw a need in the area after moving here in 2012. This new store has a vintage industrial feel and was inspired by local working history of the area.

Talaria carries many quality name brands that cannot be found locally. The store also includes accessories such as hats, gloves, scarves, bags and coats. In the few short weeks that it has been open the store has been recognized as a quality retailer with a unique shopping experience.

This weekend Purcell Outdoors, Kimberley’s newest retail shop will open. Local resident Patty Oakley, will open her doors on the opposite side of Arrow & Axe in the spot that has sparked much discussion.

Patty was inspired to open the equipment store as there is nowhere you can find these items in town.

This Saturday, Dec. 5, the three businesses are celebrating their recent openings as well as the revival to the Fields Building and Annex.

They will all be serving refreshments through out the day, playing music outside from Arrow and Axe’s spectacular Marshall speakers and Talaria will be celebrating eight weeks of being open with a gift with each purchase and prize draws through out the day.

Come down this Saturday and celebrate with these vibrant entrepreneurs.

Lead image: Empty retail space has been filled in The Platzl. Ian Cobb/e-KNOW file photos

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