Comments on: Silk: A Smoothie Cafe Doesn't Make It

By: Scott

Scott — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 22:55:20 +0000

At least Scrapbook Chic didn’t fold, so that’s a bit less concerning. They’re down the road in Avondale now.

By: Kenneth

Kenneth — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:25:08 +0000

While I don’t disagree with some of these posts, there are several Decatur businesses that cater to the local economy, have done tremendous research about their product and location, keep consistent hours, do not have staff, and give to the community, and STILL are struggling. I talk with these owners and I shop in these stores , because they are convenient, give excellent customer service, are neighbors, are competetive in their pricing, and they are big community contributors. I can’t imagine this town without several of these stores. If there is something you want in a shop or restaurant, do tell the owner, but realize if you are the only one asking for it, it may not be feasible to offer. I give the owners plenty of suggestions, and some are utilized, some are not, and when they aren’t I usually get a realistic explanation as to why. Yes, there are only so many coffee houses, hair places, and nail salons to go around, but there are also plenty of unique shops that offer truly wonderful items. What folks have to realize is that a vibrant downtown shopping district is key to keeping our home prices up and our community successful. I do think that often landlords and those that grant business licenses should only allow for a certain amount of a certain type of business in the area, so that everyone has a chance at survival. However, there are some businesses that simply do not have a product I desire, or I have had bad experiences in, so I do not support them.

By: Decaturguy

Decaturguy — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:49:00 +0000

Before the fire destryoed that building a few years ago, you had several very sucessful, thriving businesses there (Corner Pub, E2 Coffeehouse, hair studio, a cleaners, etc.).

After the building was re-built, I think the owner just wanted to get tenants there, and really didn’t do much to see whether an actual successful businesses were moving in. And I think that shows with the vacancies now.

When the economy gets better, I have no doubt that space will be filled again with thriving businesses.

By: Steve

Steve — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:52:38 +0000

Couldn’t have said it better myself, DM. You don’t have to go far OTP to see much larger empty spaces than those here in town.

By: Decatur Metro

Decatur Metro — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:30:03 +0000

Ashleigh, I also am often surprised by the lack of planning that goes into the opening of some businesses, but I don’t think Decatur is all that unique in that regard. I just think we aren’t used to seeing a running list of closing shops, like the one provided on this site.

I still believe that there is little reason for Decatur residents to panic about shop-closings. Thanks to the forethought of residents in the early 80s and the efforts of some KEY city employees that STILL guide us, Decatur is on the cutting edge when it comes to accommodating those coming back from the suburbs or other metropolitan regions (who don’t want to live in a subdivision).

Its inevitable that this city will feel the current recession just like the rest of the country, but we are much better situated than those on the urban fringe and in all the other intown areas that haven’t planned for their future.