The Collective Will Open at Goldfinch Lofts in November
The vegan lifestyle brand will relocate to the new Des Moines carbon-neutral building.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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The Collective, a purveyor of vegan and all-natural goods, will relocate from its Highland Park storefront to the Goldfinch Lofts at 3404 Ingersoll Ave in November 2026. This transition follows a legal dispute involving rent increases at the business’s previous location.
Why it matters
The business owner sought a move to the Goldfinch Lofts to better align with personal sustainability values, while also escaping a landlord dispute marked by rent hikes of approximately 25%. The relocation highlights the growing demand for sustainable commercial spaces in Des Moines.
The new Goldfinch Lofts location offers 9,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space, with 80% of total slots currently leased. The Collective has secured a five-year lease and successfully raised relocation funds by selling over 70 tote bags.
The players
The Collective
This is a retail business specializing in vegan, all-natural soaps and lifestyle products.
Joe Cordaro
He is the landlord involved in a legal dispute with tenants regarding rent increases.
Wine & Pretty Things
This is an additional business entity confirmed to open a location at the Goldfinch Lofts.
Nicolino
This business has entered into a five-year lease agreement to operate within the Goldfinch Lofts.
The details
The Collective will finalize its move from 3600 6th Ave to the mass-timber Goldfinch Lofts building later this November. As part of a larger trend in the development, the structure utilizes wooden planks instead of traditional steel and concrete to achieve state-certified carbon neutrality.
Timeline
2023: The Collective began its occupancy in the Highland Park neighborhood.
2024: The Star Lofts became Iowa's first carbon-neutral building.
October 9, 2026: A summary judgment hearing is scheduled regarding the landlord dispute.
November 2026: The Goldfinch Lofts project completion and business relocation will occur.
November 28, 2026: The Collective will host its official grand opening at the new site.
Market Landscape
This development reflects the broader trend of corporate interest in sustainable, mass-timber infrastructure within the Iowa real estate market. The move positions the Goldfinch Lofts as a competitive hub for local businesses seeking to align their physical presence with environmental goals.
Shoppers can expect a new retail experience in the Ingersoll Avenue area starting in late November. Customers should note the move from Highland Park to the new address at 3404 Ingersoll Ave for future visits.
The takeaway
The relocation of The Collective highlights the influence of sustainability standards on modern commercial real estate leasing. Business owners can consider how moving to certified sustainable properties can align operational goals with brand values.
What happens next
A summary judgment hearing for the lawsuit against Joe Cordaro is scheduled for October 9, 2026. The grand opening for The Collective is slated for November 28, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on local retail shifts, visit Des Moines Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Des Moines Register.
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