MARTIN, S.D. - A unique new storefront will soon be opening in downtown Martin. The Local Exchange will provide a place for vendors to sell handmade, handcrafted and new products.

“We have a lot of talented people in the area, so we wanted to have a place where they can sell their items on Main Street,” said The Local Exchange organizer Lanna Trantham.

Trantham hopes to have the business open before the end of the year. It will be located along Main Street in a previously vacant building across from Pioneer Building Supply. The City of Martin has agreed to help the project by paying the building’s rent for a year.

“That way these entrepreneurs can see the potential of their products. If it goes well, maybe they will want to open up their own business in Martin,” said Trantham.

The marketplace will be vendor-operated, with sellers working a set number of hours each month to keep the store running smoothly. Trantham said several vendors are already on board, but there’s plenty of room for more.

“We’re not just creating a store—we’re building a space where friends and neighbors can connect, shop, and support each other,” said Trantham.

Beyond shopping, The Local Exchange will host events to bring the community together, including the town’s farmers’ market, kid craft days, and vendor workshops.

“Hopefully this will bring more businesses and customers to Main Street Martin,” said Trantham.

Downtown Martin has seen some recent changes with Pioneer Building Supply opening earlier this year and a free ice skating rink planned nearby.