May 25 marks a milestone for Mast General Store, as the beloved retailer celebrates its 15th anniversary in downtown Columbia. To commemorate the occasion, the store will offer free bags of its signature freshly popped popcorn to visitors throughout the day.
When the Mast Store first opened its doors in 2011, downtown Columbia looked very different. Foot traffic was sparse, parking was plentiful, and retail and dining options were limited. Today, the area has transformed into a vibrant destination, featuring increased pedestrian activity, a growing number of restaurants and hotels, regular community events, and expanding residential options, including apartments and student housing.
“We are pleased to see all the changes happening in Columbia,” said Lisa Cooper, president of Mast General Store. “And there is so much more on the horizon with new apartment and student housing developments underway. We are excited to see what’s next.”
City leaders and the Columbia City Center Partnership—now known as the Main Street District—long viewed Mast Store as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. Over time, that vision has taken shape through sustained investment, planning, and community engagement.
“When I moved to Columbia with my family in 2006, Main Street was a place people purposely avoided,” said Jeremy Becraft, the store’s general manager for the past 13 years. “One of the best aspects of my role is engaging with the community. That’s been the cornerstone of our success, something our founders, John and Faye Cooper—and now Lisa—recognized early on.”
Efforts to improve safety and accessibility have also played a key role in downtown’s resurgence. The Main Street District’s ambassador program, commonly known as the “Yellow Shirts,” has become a visible and reassuring presence.
“The Yellow Shirts are easily recognized on Main Street. They do everything from hanging baskets of flowers to giving directions to the art museum,” Becraft said. “This group has made a significant impact on the safety of downtown.”
“Mast Store has transformed Columbia’s Main Street District since opening 15 years ago,” said Matt Kennell, president and chief operating officer of the Main Street District. “They have demonstrated a commitment to community that extends beyond their storefront and has helped our downtown thrive.”
The building that houses Mast General Store dates back to the 1870s, when Columbia was rebuilding after the American Civil War. Over the decades, it has been home to a variety of businesses, including a grocery, saloon, furniture store, and even an undertaker’s parlor. Two of its longest-running tenants—Efird’s department store (1915–1958) and Lourie’s men’s shop (1960–2008)—each served the community for more than 40 years.
Becraft also highlighted the continued energy surrounding downtown Columbia, pointing to attractions like the Soda City Market and longtime establishments such as Villa Tronco.
“There is a lot going on, and people are excited about downtown,” he said. “But one of my favorite things about Columbia and the Mast Store is the employees. Their loyalty is something I’ve never experienced in previous retail roles. It’s a very special place to me.”
Mast General Store is located at 1601 Main Street in downtown Columbia.
