Milwaukee’s first and only Black- and Brown-owned plant shop, Maranta Plant Shop, announced on Monday, June 26 the temporary closure of its store in Bronzeville.
“Running Maranta has been a fulfilling journey, one that taught me resilience and the importance of community,” said owner Michelle Alfero in a press release. “However, burnout has led me to pause, reassess and prioritize my well-being.”
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Alfero opened Maranta Plant Shop doors in the Bronzeville community back in April of 2021 after a successful pop-up in October of the previous year. Throughout the years, the shop had its own tostada truck and hosted regular flea markets.
“Maranta’s journey from a pop-up to a recognized plant shop, has been a testament to the community and unwavering determination,” said Alfero. “Despite our successes, our story is also a reflection of the larger issues that Black and Brown business owners face in Milwaukee.”
Alfero says the lack of financial resources for entrepreneurs of color in Milwaukee is a hurdle that is often overlooked.
“As I take this break, it’s my hope that Maranta’s hiatus illuminates this challenge and sparks conversation and action towards more equitable support for small businesses in our community,” Alfero said.
Maranta Plant shop will be hosting a two-day closing sale on June 28 and June 29 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will provide updates about the future-reopening of the store via their website and social media platforms.
“Our absence is only a pause in our story, not the end.” Alfero and the Maranta team said in the release.
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