Angers has recently welcomed several new openings and celebrated significant anniversaries among its businesses, adding vibrancy to the city’s commercial scene. One of the notable highlights includes the long-standing presence of Imbach Musique, which has proudly served the community for 75 years. Established back in 1949 by luthier Georges Miette, the store has seen its share of challenges and triumphs, with current owner Anny Rees at the helm since 2009.
Despite her passion for the music retail industry, Rees expresses concern about the future of music stores like hers. "When I took over, there were still about ten music shops around Angers. Now, after the closing of Polyphonic, we’re down to just two shops left in the hyper-center, plus three others throughout the city,” she lamented. The rapid decline of such specialized stores—1 out of every 12 music shops closes every month across France—has left Anny feeling anxious about what the future holds.
Meanwhile, the local economy is receiving another boost with the arrival of the Primeur de la Visitation, run by Alban and Juliana Hasa, who previously made their mark at local markets before venturing to open this new establishment. After four months of closure during the transition from the former Halles de la Visitation market, the duo has transformed the space, offering fresh, local produce with personal service. Their goal remains clear: to provide residents with accessible, high-quality products each day from Tuesday through Saturday. "We focus on local farmers and vendors we've collaborated with on various markets throughout the years,” Alban shared.
Not to be outdone, the grocery segment also expanded with Franprix opening its doors at 113 Rue des Ponts-de-Cé. This new branch aims to become part of the fabric of local shopping habits, as the brand is known for its urban convenience and accessibility. Already established at Rue du Cornet, Franprix’s expansion reflects the growing demand for neighborhood self-service options.
Good news isn't limited to groceries and music, though—Angers has also seen the resurrection of child-focused retail with MôMes, which offers goods and services aimed at parents and children. Previously located at Rue du Mail, the shop had to temporarily close, only to revive within the Au vide grenier store located at Saint-Serge, refreshing the local community's offerings for families.
On the culinary front, JAC Food has emerged on Rue Parcheminerie, specializing in smash burgers and fried chicken—a new flavor to tickle the taste buds of locals. The two brothers behind the venture, the Couetmeurs, aim to tap the increasing interest for quick, flavorful meals made from quality ingredients.
Adding to Angers prestige is the local talent of Ange Ducloux who, as part of La Doréenne on Rue Bressigny, is set to compete nationally at the 14th Trophée du conseil et de la vente en boulangerie-pâtisserie. This prestigious contest highlights excellence within local culinary crafts, with the finals happening at Auxerre from November 19 to 21.
Chocolate lovers can take joy as well, with chocolatier Damien Vetault being recently awarded two prestigious accolades from the club of chocolate enthusiasts—the "Tablette d’or" and the "Coup de cœur". Vetault’s workshop, located at Place du Lycée, is known for its exquisite and innovative offerings and now gains even more recognition.
With these new openings and anniversaries, the local businesses of Angers are not just surviving; they're thriving, bringing life and flair to the community. Whether it's musical instruments, fresh produce, specialized child-focused products, mouthwatering food, or exquisite chocolates, there's surely something for everyone as Angers continues to evolve as a vibrant commercial hub.
