New Year, New Beginnings: Businesses Open Exciting Locations For 2024
With 2024 right around the corner, several beloved and new businesses are set to open their doors, revitalizing local economies and communities with fresh opportunities.
One of the significant transitions is the San Francisco Flower Market, which recently opened for the last time at its SOMA location on December 28, 2023. After nearly seven decades at 6th and Brannan Streets, the market will relocate to 16th and Mississippi Streets, Portero Hill, effectively kicking off its new chapter starting January 2, 2024. Executive Director Jeanne Taggart Boes shared her bittersweet feelings about leaving behind the old spot, saying, "I feel like I grew up in this market. There's a lot of folks who have mixed feelings right now. Everyone loved to stay here. No one likes change." The move, according to Boes, supports their new status as a 501(c)(3) organization, highlighting the importance of stabilizing the floral agriculture market amid San Francisco's high costs.
Down south, the club scene is also buzzing with news. Klub 20/44, known for its previous floating location along the Sava River, has announced it will reopen at Karađorđeva 44 after being closed since May. The much-anticipated launch party is scheduled for New Year’s Eve, promising to retain the original vibe and creativity of the venue. Club representative Vojkan Becir expressed excitement over the new venue, stating, "We got to play with it and use some new areas and clear the space for a bigger dance floor." This new space is considered key for hosting parties, as the previous location was deemed too close to new developments and had reached its limitations.
Meanwhile, the fast-food chain Wendy's has made its mark, having opened its latest location on October 28, 2023, at 2324 False River Drive, New Roads. Franchisee Kenny Mayes, who manages several Wendy's across Louisiana, emphasized the new establishment as being strategically located to serve the community with quality food options. With offerings for take-out, drive-thru, and delivery via DoorDash, this new outlet aims to enrich dining choices for locals.
On February 7, 2025, Poutine, Pints & Plaid will make its jittery return, moving to the main campus at the Education Centre cafeteria, North Bay. The event will not only feature gourmet food but will rally the community behind local food banks, with proceeds directed toward supporting families facing food insecurity. Organizer Jonathan Jolkowski conveyed the importance of both community engagement and fun, saying, "We are so excited to support such a worthy cause within the community and love...keeping Poutine, Pints & Plaid a fun event for everyone to attend." The Rotary Club of Nipissing is glad to see this tradition carry on as it adapitates from the previous Rotaract Club event.
Piedmont Physicians of Stockbridge is also on the move, having transferred operations to 350 Country Club Drive on December 16, 2023. This relocation is more than just about space; it embodies the goal of enhancing patient care and accommodating the needs of up to seven physicians under 5,000 square feet. According to David Kent, CEO of Piedmont Henry Hospital, "This is an important move for our community. It allows us to add more physicians and serve more patients."
Not far behind, Community Thrift is preparing to open its second location at 513 N. Edison St. with grand opening festivities set for 9 a.m. this coming Wednesday. This store mirrors the success of its first location by promising more space for product offerings.
Finally, the beloved Flying Feet store located on Mount Rose Avenue is set to become the third Fleet Feet location in Central Pennsylvania, replacing its prior ownership after 40 years. The new ownership is excited about adopting the community-centered legacy. Anna and Fred Joslyn shared, "We’re excited to announce the opening of our third location, supporting the York community, in 2025." The transition echoes the need for sustained community engagement and quality sporting goods.
With these openings, closures, and transitions, 2024 is promising to be a transformative year for local businesses, enhancing variety and engagement across different communities. It's clear: the business scene is alive and full of opportunities!
