News Summary
MOD GEN, a beloved general store in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, will close its doors forever on Christmas Eve after 25 years in business. CEO Doug McDonald announced the closure on social media, expressing gratitude for the support from the community. As the store prepares for its farewell, holiday sales and liquidations will provide customers with discounted products. The closing marks the end of an era for a store that has become a cornerstone of the local retail scene.
Milwaukee – MOD GEN, a popular general store located at 211 N. Broadway St. in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, will close permanently on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. The announcement was made by CEO Doug McDonald via a statement on social media, where he conveyed that this will be the store’s last holiday season. After 25 years in operation, McDonald expressed that it is time for him to retire and embark on a new chapter of life.
In his statement, McDonald reflected on the journey of MOD GEN, which has encountered both successes and challenges over the years. He expressed his gratitude for the support received from the greater Milwaukee community during the store’s tenure. As part of the closure preparations, MOD GEN will hold holiday sales and inventory liquidations, allowing customers to purchase remaining products at discounted rates.
Customers are encouraged to visit the store during its final months, particularly to utilize any gift cards they may have before the store ceases operations. Currently, MOD GEN operates from Wednesday through Sunday, with hours from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
History of MOD GEN
MOD GEN originally opened in Shorewood in 2001 under the name Garden Room. Its rebranding to MOD GEN occurred in 2014, reflecting its broader range of offerings. In 2016, after 15 years in Shorewood, MOD GEN relocated to its current Third Ward location, where it has become a well-known destination for shoppers in the area.
Store Offerings
The general store specializes in a diverse selection of home and garden goods. The product range includes plants, books, ceramics, kitchenware, and various other home products designed to cater to the needs of customers looking to enhance their living spaces.
Significance to the Community
Throughout its operation, MOD GEN has established itself as more than just a retail store; it has become a part of the community fabric in Milwaukee. The store’s commitment to providing quality products and fostering customer relationships has earned it a loyal following among local residents. Its impending closure signifies the end of an era for many who have frequented the store over the years.
As the holidays approach, the excitement surrounding the final seasonal celebrations at MOD GEN is palpable. Efforts are being made to ensure that the closing months provide a memorable experience for customers. With the holiday sales and liquidation events, shoppers have the opportunity to find great deals while supporting a beloved local business in its final days.
The closure of MOD GEN has prompted discussions among community members about the impact of such retail changes on local business landscapes and the importance of supporting neighborhood stores to preserve the unique character of areas like Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. The sentiment reflects a growing awareness of the challenges faced by small businesses in today’s economy.
In summary, as MOD GEN prepares for its closing, the Milwaukee community is encouraged to visit, support, and share memories at the store that has served as a cornerstone of the local retail scene for a quarter of a century.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- Milwaukee Record
- Milwaukee Magazine
- BizTimes
- On Milwaukee
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- Google Search: MOD GEN
- Google Scholar: MOD GEN Milwaukee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MOD GEN
- Google News: MOD GEN closure
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
