New owners will keep variety store downtown

    A variety store will remain a fixture on Main Street, Clear Lake.
    The former Larson’s Mercantile has been purchased by Alan and Jason Gochanour, of Toledo, Iowa.
Alan Gochanour said Tuesday he and his partner take possession of the Main Avenue business in early April. No date has been set for its opening.
    “The store will be very similar to Larsons,” said Gochanour, who has been in the variety store business about 30 years. He also owns Ben Franklin stores in Eagle Grove and Waterloo.
    He explained many of the suppliers used by Ben Franklin stores are the same used by Kim Larson, owner of Larson’s Mercantile for 15 years. The difference in stores is based on markets, size of the store and demand.
    Gochanour noted the city’s recently approved business incentives were effective in peaking his interest for the property.