Solid Manufacturing Co. is known for its signature stools with paint-dipped legs, pour-over coffee stands, and leather goods, all handcrafted in Minneapolis. Now, owners Dan and Alex Cordell are expanding with Ace General Store, a new men’s retail storefront in Excelsior that showcases goods from local, national, and international makers.
Ace will take up residence in the old carriage house behind the Golden Rule (another maker-oriented shop) at 356 Water Street, which was previously home to Lululemon’s kids yogawear brand, Ivivva. In addition to men’s clothing and accessories, the store will also carry outdoor gear, home goods, and a selection of curated vintage items.
The shop’s offerings focus on artisan-made, practical clothing, accessories, and gear inspired by Minnesota’s tradition of enjoying the outdoors, year-round. Brands include St. Paul’s own Lanona Shoe Company, Omaha’s Artifact Bags, San Diego bag maker Bradley Mountain, Tennessee-based workwear brand L.C. King Co., archival sport–inspired brand Ebbets Field Flannels, and heritage eyewear brand American Optical Company—and of course, Solid Manufacturing’s line of leather goods, home goods, and furniture, as well as its kids line, solidKIDS.
Ace will expand on the community-driven retail presence of Excelsior’s Water Street—which is also home to Gray Home + Lifestyle, Brightwater Clothing & Gear, Primp, Lake Effect, Epitome Papers, and menswear store J. Novachis—by showing art and photography by local artists, hosting song and supper gatherings, and leading creative workshops dedicated to the outdoor spirit of Minnesota.
The store is slated to open the second week of November with an exhibit of limited-edition photographs by local photographer, Brandon Werth. To celebrate the store’s grand opening, Ace General will host “A Gathering of Friends” event on Small Business Saturday, November 25, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Follow @acegeneralstore on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at the new store. Here’s a sneak peek: