Shop ‘till you drop is a distinct possibility on any given day in Manistee County. And retailers have found Manistee County to be a growing and diverse marketplace, consisting of year-round residents and a rapidly growing population of seasonal residents, tourists and retirees.

Whether it’s fine art or a quick run to a convenience store, Manistee County retailers offer soup to nuts for resident or visiting shoppers.

Many retailers have defined specialty niches around features that are distinctly Manistee County, ranging from made-in-Manistee food products to specialty items for the beach, lake, stream or ski hill to fine wines, boutiques or furnishings for a cottage or home.

What is unique about Manistee retailers?

The answers are as endless as the opportunities.

They include endless varieties of Jerky from Dublin; the finest smoked fish and meats from Wellston; the largest collection of apparel with fish art near Wellston; classic art, sculpture, furnishings, cookware, candles and antiques on River Street in the City of Manistee; a distinctly different store for women in Onekama; and shops for anglers that offer all of the gear imaginable plus guide services to areas salmon and trout.

Manistee County has consistently ranked in the top half of all Michigan counties in per capita retail sales. Total retail sales for the County are approaching $200 million, with about 125 retailers providing jobs for over 1,000 employees. Retail trade currently supports about 13 percent of the total annual payroll in the County.

Whether you’re a shopper or a retailer, the opportunities for retail in Manistee County are great and getting stronger!