VICKSBURG, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — It was a big day for the village of Vicksburg on Thursday, April 14th as the reimagined Mackenzies Bakery opened it’s doors for business with many people lining up to get a treat. The highly sought after bakery opened under new ownership in a refurbished 137-year-old building in the historic village located 12 miles south of Kalamazoo city.
New owner Chris Moore, who’s renovating a nearby former paper mill into a $100 million dollar mixed-use facility, says the new Mackenzies represents a huge part of his vision to present aesthetically pleasing business opportunities that will benefit the 3,400-person village for generations to come.
Moore purchased the former Kalamazoo bakery nearly a year ago to the date of Thursday’s grand opening.
The 1,700 square foot space at 103 East Prairie Street, which served as a customer-facing bakery, is set to offer artisanal breads, cookies, muffins, jams, and of course, coffee.
“I fondly remember walking with grade school classmates to downtown Vicksburg with a quarter in hand excited to buy a turnover from Otto’s Bakery,” said Moore. “My hope is that a visit to Mackenzies Bakery will create a new generation’s worth of memories for residents and visitors in our hometown.”
To make sure the transition went as smooth as it could possibly go, Moore got in touch with former bakery owner, John MacKenzie for input and consultation.
“Chris Moore and his team have really captured the essence of a small-town bakery while incorporating modern functionality,” said MacKenzie after touring the nearly completed site in March. “The space has so much natural light and charm, along with the best baking oven in the industry. It just brings a smile to my face knowing the legacy continues with this Vicksburg location.”
In addition to engaging the former owner, Moore also hired two long-time MacKenzie’s employees to manage daily operation, General Manager Jill Younger and Head Baker Cris Najar.
“Our passion for this craft will be apparent,” said Younger. “I promise that no matter how you interact with Mackenzies that you will get delicious baked goods and service that makes you feel like you’ve found a home away from home.”
“I am thrilled to return to the kitchen and continue the tradition of creating Mackenzie’s bread and treats,” said Najar. “I can’t wait to engage with patrons and share our high-quality, seasonal offerings in an environment that will rival major culinary venues!”
For hours, directions and additional information, visit http://www.mackenziesbakery.com.
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