Concannon's buys Farmland coffee shop

By BETH MOLAND

News-Gazette reporter

Anyone looking for a sweet treat to go with an aromatic cup of coffee might want to check out Main Street Coffee and Candy Company downtown Farmland at 104 N. Main St. The name has changed, but the delectable inventory is mostly the same. With the August purchase of the local coffee shop by long-standing, Muncie bakery Concannon's, the refreshing beverage spot will have a few more delicacies on hand.

For the past year and half, Concannon's Pastries, Fine Chocolates & Gourmet Popcorn has sold several of their products through the coffee shop. Now, some will be produced on the premises.

"One third of the reception room was converted to house our candy-making area," co-owner Mary Ann Concannon said. "We've brought all of our candy and popcorn-making over here. It will be made here and shipped elsewhere and to our other stores."

Concannon, along with co-owner husband Mike purchased the Muncie store in 1998 from his parents who started the flourishing business in1959 at 620 N. Walnut St. across from Muncie Central High School. The younger Concannons developed their entrepreneurial experience by working in the family business since their teenage years.

One thing they had to learn recently was coffee-making, which they have relied on the expertise of Don and Carla Wheeldon, former owners of Main Street Coffee Company. Concannon said the Wheeldons sold their business, as they were ready to ease into retirement, Carla more than Don - a master coffee roaster.

"Don is still completely involved and came with the deal, which we're glad for," Concannon said. "He just won't be involved in all the business part of the store. Mike and our son Mark also help Don with the roasting."

She said the Wheeldons will help train employees at their new Muncie establishment opening in February on Morrison Road and Baker Lane, near the northside Wal-Mart. Wheeldon's coffee and some of Concannon's products are also shipped throughout the United States.

Concannon has been pleased with the reception received from the Farmland community of her newer establishment.

"Everyone has been so welcoming here," she said. "They love the young girls."

She was referring to her Muncie employees working in the new store, plus hirees from the Farmland area. Concannon said she intends to employ more for the Christmas season.

The Main Street Coffee and Candy Company is open Wednesday through Saturday, with hours from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 8 a.m. to 2:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. Concannon said future plans are to open on Tuesdays and hours may change for holidays.

With the aroma of fine coffee beans wafting through the 'old-timey' setting; tasty pastries, donuts, candy and popcorn to nibble on; and plenty of cozy seating, Main Street Coffee and Candy Company will, hopefully, become a 'hustle and bustle' business for Historic Farmland. For more information, call (765) 468-8393.