The Community Mercantile, now known as The Merc, was started in 1972 as a natural food cooperative in Lawrence, Kansas. Through the years it has changed locations and expanded its product offerings and staff size.

1972

Mercantile located at 1237 Oread Street, Harry Kroeger manager.

1973-1975

Mercantile Grocery Company located at 730 Massachusetts Street.

January 2, 1975

Community Mercantile opens in new location at 728 Massachusetts Street. Molly Van Hee was the first manager. Suzanne Bryant was soon hired as a co-manager.

June 1975

Community Mercantile moves to 615 Massachusetts Street. Chuck Magerl, Patti Spencer and Diane Luber joined the management team.

November 1975

The Community Mercantile Credit Union (brainchild of Chuck Magerl) was started with 24 accounts and assets of $285, located at 615 Massachusetts Street in the back of the Community Mercantile. Dick Dunhaupt was the first manager. Other early day employees included Lynn Pieschl, Rod Runyan, Paul Johnson, Mark Maher, Richard Kirschenbaum, Denise Kester, Marilyn Roy, and others.

1976-1977

The Community Mercantile incorporated (Inc.). Mark Maher was the president.

August 1977

Community Mercantile Inc. moved to 700 Maine Street.

1978-1981

Community Mercantile Inc. was managed by Chuck Magerl.

1993

Community Mercantile Inc. moved to the corner of 9th and Mississippi Street.

2001-present

Community Mercantile located at 9th and Iowa Street and rebranded as "The Merc."