Anniston, AL – Downtown Anniston came alive on Friday, July 11, 2025, as two locally owned businesses hosted exciting events that drew visitors, energized the community, and reinforced the city’s commitment to small business growth and downtown revitalization.
At 1108 Noble Street, a joyful crowd gathered for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of Kress Mercantile, a bold new retail venture housed in the historic S.H. Kress building. Owners Andy Koehler and Toby Kilpatrick have breathed new life into what was formerly the Kress Grand Ballroom, transitioning the space from an elegant event venue into a vibrant marketplace. Now known as Kress Mercantile, the shop offers a carefully curated selection of products from over a dozen local vendors, including handcrafted clothing, unique gifts, home goods, and locally sourced honey.
But the transformation doesn’t stop there—starting August 1, Kress Mercantile will also feature an in-store lunch café, cupcakes, and hand-scooped ice cream, creating a full sensory experience for shoppers and visitors alike.
The ribbon cutting, attended by community leaders, business owners, and supporters, marked more than just a new business opening—it celebrated a vision realized. A blend of historic preservation and modern innovation, Kress Mercantile stands as a shining example of how local entrepreneurship can help shape a city’s future. From its elegant architectural details to the passion behind each vendor, the space tells a story of resilience, creativity, and community spirit.
Just down the block, Old Noble Bookstore, co-owned by Justin Hall and Kevin Cheatwood, celebrated in delicious fashion with a birthday pie tasting from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Partnering with beloved local bakery Sweet Kakies, the event drew loyal customers and curious newcomers into the cozy and charming bookstore to sample fresh, homemade pies in honor of Justin’s birthday. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, filled with laughter, conversation, and the sweet smell of Southern baking.
Old Noble Bookstore has quickly become a cultural cornerstone in downtown Anniston—a place where literature, community, and creativity converge. Whether you’re searching for a new read or attending one of their frequent events, the bookstore offers something special to every visitor.
Together, these two events highlighted the momentum building in downtown Anniston. Locally owned businesses like Kress Mercantile and Old Noble Bookstore are not only bringing new offerings to residents and travelers—they’re revitalizing the city’s historic core, attracting foot traffic, and fueling the local economy.
Anniston is open for business, and its future looks brighter than ever. As these entrepreneurs invest in our city’s past and present, they’re helping shape a downtown that is welcoming, walkable, and full of life. Stop by Noble Street, explore what’s new, and be part of Anniston’s incredible comeback story.
