Jacksonville Florida Times-Union reports that the city has seen an increase in small business openings, adding to an already vibrant local business scene. Major retailers are also opening at Gateway Town Center, and Jacksonville’s Regency Square Mall is set to change ownership. The small business scene in Jacksonville has been thriving with new shops and boutiques opening around the city.

From a vintage boutique in Springfield to new bookstores in the urban core, 2023 has been a year of growth for small businesses. With Small Business Saturday approaching, businesses are gearing up for this important shopping day. Two new independent bookstores in Jacksonville, Happy Medium Books Cafe and Literary Lounge, will be celebrating their grand openings. Femme Fire Books, a bookstore that has been open for a year, will also mark the milestone of having a physical location.

New shops to check out and support include Purple Mangrove, a pre-owned and vintage clothing store that also sells beverages and plants. Sunhoney, a modern, bohemian boutique, recently opened a storefront at Jacksonville Beach. Planet Circle, a store offering plants, home decor, and unique gifts, opened in Riverside while Greenhouse, a bar