Illinois antique market under new ownership

GURNEE, Ill. — Matt and Kelly Baranko admittedly didn’t know a lot about antiques when they decided to purchase one of the largest antique centers in the Chicagoland area. But when the opportunity presented itself to combine his expertise in real estate

and construction with her marketing skills, the young Lake Forest, Ill., couple seized the chance, gliding into their role as new owners of the Gurnee Antique Market (formerly Gurnee Antique Center) at 5742 Northridge Drive in Gurnee, Illinois. The Market invites the public to come celebrate Spring and its new ownership by enjoying up to 35 percent off during their Spring Sale April 24-26.

Often touted for its wide appeal to collectors, industry experts and designers, as well as the more casual weekend ‘brunch & browsers,’ Gurnee Antique Market is a destination for anyone to get their fix for all things vintage, and find a unique home accent.

The Market features more than 100 dealers under one roof and boasts 21,000 square feet of eclectic treasures, and an ever-changing inventory of furniture, collectibles, jewelry, fine art, fashion and more. With new pieces coming in daily, each visit will reveal a new discovery. With the new ownership, the Gurnee Antique Market has already enhanced the physical space as well as made updates to its marketing and branding to improve the shopping and dealer experiences alike.

“It’s one of the best shops in the area for price, quality, and selection,” said antique dealer Barb Custer, who has been successfully selling at the Gurnee Antique Market for a number of years. “We are enthusiastic about the new energy and ideas Matt and Kelly are bringing to the Market.”

Conveniently located just off I-294, mid-way between Chicago and Milwaukee, near Gurnee Mills and Six Flags Great America, the Gurnee Antique Market provides surprising finds at lower-than-downtown prices. The Market location is perfect for Chicago shoppers and beyond — including those in the North Shore and Southeast Wisconsin areas.

Longtime manager and antique expert George Zukowski continues to run the day-to-day operations and on-site retail experience, ensuring only top-quality vendors and products are represented. Matt Baranko said, “We’ve changed some of what we thought would make the Market even better, and kept all of what has always made the Market great – especially the staff, and our amazing dealers. It is truly a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.”

The Market, which is open seven days a week, specializes in antiques from the 18th century through the 1970s. For more information, special events, sale dates or directions, visit www.gurneeantiquemarket.com.