With the grand opening of Merino Mill’s Picasso Mediterranean, the southern end of Main Street is quickly growing as a gateway to a vibrant Downtown Mooresville.
Picasso Mediterranean is the latest venture from Michal Bay, who purchased the former Burlington Mill in 2008 and has since transformed it into a thriving business district with more than 50 tenants, including 10 international companies. Spanning more than 1 million square feet, Merino Mill is home to award-winning restaurants (Alino’s Pizzeria and Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden), the corporate headquarters of Greenworks Tools and DEHN USA, an antique mall with 430 vendors, and a mix of retail and office space.
After 17 years of restoration, the renovation is almost fully complete.
“It became wonderful with everybody’s help – the community, the Town, the mayor,” shared Bay
During the grand opening event on Tuesday, July 22, the Town of Mooresville presented a proclamation in honor of Merino Mill’s impact on the local community. “He is such a community-minded person,” said Mayor Chris Carney about Michal Bay. “What he’s been able to do for the community and redevelopment of the southern part of Main Street has been amazing.”
Town leaders are also optimistic about the impact of the recently announced Moor Park renovation, which they hope will continue to energize the south end of downtown. These and other projects are aligned with the Town’s Strategic Plan priority of Individual and Community Economic Vitality by supporting diverse economic drivers to foster a robust and varied economy, as well as assisting sustainable business growth by leveraging local strengths.
“Today shows the sheer excitement of something growing and happening,” said Florian Wirnitzer, supply chain manager for DEHN, Inc., a Germany-based company with almost 40 people working in its Merino Mill location. “The great connections and support from the county, from the Town, the great state of North Carolina and from Michal Bay – it’s just been amazing.”
