Topeka Vendors Market
Photos by Emma Highfill, Rose Wheat Photography
Todd Konkel had a big vision when he decided to invest in a group of buildings near 6th and Adams in Topeka. Konkel was inspired by the work that many have done to revitalize Topeka in recent years, especially downtown, and saw an opportunity to contribute to the momentum by tackling a project of his own. He searched in less developed areas of the city for a site that could be restored and adapted to new use and found the former Stacks Secure Record Storage complex at 528 SE Adams St. It checked off all the boxes.
“I came across the buildings and really liked them right away for their history, condition, location, and their potential for creativity,” Konkel said. “We decided to redevelop these historic buildings in such a way that it would bring something really unique to the Topeka market, a really interesting and fun place to be.”
Konkel found himself with a lot of square footage and decided that partnering with small businesses to fill the space would be a win-win. On the first floor of the former Topeka Transfer and Storage building of the complex, Konkel opened Topeka Vendors Market, a retail location that leases space to other businesses.
“Vendors have the ability to essentially open their own small business in the company of others with little risk,” Konkel said. “Many vendors like being part of the community of other vendors. Many also thrive on the ability to use their creativity and talents in decorating really fabulous spaces.”
Another benefit is that everyone who leases space can work together to promote the marketto their networks, support each other’s growth, and contribute to positive customer experiences that keep people coming back. Leasing space at the Topeka Vendors Market means a built-in business network. For customers, the eclectic mix of vendors means a shopping experience that suits many tastes, all in one unique space where all purchases support local businesses.
“Ours is a situation where the whole is definitely greater than the sum of the parts,” Konkel said. “All of our current and prospective tenants see very clearly the synergy involved with the various pieces of the project and are committed to promoting one another and the project as a whole.”
Konkel expected to build his network in the Topeka business community through his work, but he has been surprised and overwhelmed by kindness and generosity.
“Prior to starting this project, we had very little connection to the Topeka business community,” Konkel said, “but now, on almost a daily basis, we make new connections and meet new people that are deeply involved in the local scene. There are a lot of insightful and generous people in this community, and we are grateful to be a part of what is happening in Topeka.”
Konkel has plans for more development in the near future. The Topeka Vendors Market will open shops on additional floors in its building; they already have a waiting list of businesses ready to move into the space. Konkel sees an opportunity for artisan studio lofts on the top floor, as well. Next door, Konkel has signed a lease with a group that is opening a distillery. Another nearby building will be an indoor food truck park, and another will be a music venue and event space. The Jordan Bakery building on the north end of the project will be an office area with a coffee bar, a space to be utilized for business workshops and a fitness floor.
“We hope to play a small part in the revitalization of the downtown area by creating a place that helps draw people to the area,” Konkel said. “The positive feedback that we have received so far has been amazing. A refrain that we constantly hear is, ‘This is exactly what Topeka needs.’”
