As we move through January 2026, the local business landscape in Fort Smith and Van Buren is proving that retail is no longer just about the transaction—it’s about the destination. Two standout businesses, Main Street Mercantile and Old Fort Cards & Collectibles, are leading this charge by creating community hubs that appeal to residents from Greenwood to Alma.
Main Street Mercantile: A ‘Launchpad’ for Local Makers
Walking into the beautifully renovated building at 412 Main Street in Van Buren, you aren’t just entering one store; you’re entering twenty. The Mercantile functions as a collaborative boutique, offering a home for local artisans who might otherwise only be found at seasonal craft fairs.
What makes this space a news-worthy fixture of the River Valley is its commitment to the "talent pipeline." Through its Pointer Place initiative, the Mercantile partners with Van Buren High School to provide students with a real-world storefront to sell student-created goods. For local residents, it’s a chance to support the next generation of entrepreneurs while shopping for regionally sourced honey, handcrafted jewelry, and boutique apparel.
The Opportunity: The Mercantile is currently issuing a call for new vendors. For "makers" in Alma or Greenwood looking for a permanent footprint in a high-traffic historic district, this is the time to apply.
Old Fort Cards & Collectibles: The Modern ‘Third Space’
Across the river at 1200 Garrison Avenue (Suite 200), the atmosphere is equally vibrant but serves a different community. Old Fort Cards & Collectibles has quickly become the regional headquarters for the massive resurgence in trading card games (TCG) and sports memorabilia.
In an era of digital gaming, this shop provides a critical "third space"—a physical location outside of home and work where people can gather. Their regular "Trade Nights" and community "breaks" for Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering have turned a hobby into a local social movement. By positioning themselves in the heart of downtown Fort Smith, they are drawing in a younger demographic of collectors from across the region, including significant interest from the Greenwood and Barling areas.
Why It Matters for the River Valley
These businesses represent a shift toward what economists call the "Experience Economy." By offering more than just shelves—whether it's the historic charm of a student-led boutique or the competitive thrill of a card trade night—these shops are giving River Valley residents a reason to "stay local."
Explore the Businesses:
Both of these businesses have been added to our River Valley Local Directory. Click through to find their hours, contact details, and current vendor/event applications.
Directory Highlights:
Main Street Mercantile: Best for gifts, handmade home goods, and supporting student makers.
Old Fort Cards & Collectibles: Best for sports fans, TCG players, and community hobby events.