According to a report by the Jacksonville Florida Times-Union, the city has experienced an increase in small business openings in 2023, adding to its already vibrant local business scene. From a vintage boutique in Springfield to new bookstores in the urban core, this year has been one of growth for small businesses. In addition to these new shops, major retailers are also opening at Gateway Town Center and Jacksonville’s Regency Square Mall is set to change ownership.

As the holiday shopping season approaches, businesses are preparing for Small Business Saturday. Two new independent bookstores that have recently opened in Jacksonville, Happy Medium Books Cafe and Literary Lounge, are among the shops that will be celebrating this event. Femme Fire Books, which has been open for a year and now has a physical location, is also joining in on the festivities.

In addition to bookstores, there are several other new shops that have opened around the city that are worth checking out. Purple Mangrove is a pre-owned and vintage clothing store that also sells beverages and plants. Sunhoney, a modern bohemian boutique, has recently opened a storefront at Jacksonville Beach. Planet Circle, which offers plants, home decor, and unique gifts, opened its doors in Riverside just this month. Greenhouse, a bar coffeehouse and shop combination that celebrated its first anniversary earlier this year in Brooklyn’s neighborhood is also another great option to explore.

Overall, the small business scene in Jacksonville continues to thrive with new shops and boutiques opening up all over town. Whether you’re looking for books or clothing or unique gifts or home decor items; there’s something for everyone with these exciting additions to the local business landscape