There has been considerable movement in the Downtown Winslow business core during the last month, according to Andrea Mackin, executive director of Bainbridge Island Downtown Association.
Mackin said that many business owners are adapting to the current economic situation by adjusting their business approach and, in some cases, downsizing by moving into spaces that are less costly.
“The economy is providing new opportunities for small businesses to get in and become established, more so than before when real estate was at a premium and vacancies were relatively rare occurrences,” she said.
For example, the owners of Rancho Winslow closed their shop in Winslow Green and moved to their successful consignment outpost, Silver Star Trading Post, located on Madison Avenue. They also hope to add a weekend outdoor Flea Market during the summer months.
Lollipops Children’s Boutique in the Winslow Mall is adding consignment clothing and is increasing its selection of locally made clothing.
Several new businesses have moved, or are planning to move, into vacant retail spaces in the core area.
Katie Butler has moved her “road show” of locally handmade items, Indie Banditas Bazaar, into a small shop at 130 Winslow Way East.
Blue Island Shoes will sell women’s shoes when it opens a shop in the Winslow Green space that once held Magnolia’s Shoes.
Winslow Cabinets and Home Detail opened recently in The Winslow, and is selling high-end custom cabinet lines.
SuBi, a Japanese restaurant, opened in the Pavilion in February and is planning a grand opening event soon.
And Bath Junkie, which closed its doors last summer, will reopen soon at 400 Winslow Way E. in the space previously occupied by Indulgence.
Additionally, two businesses have joined the hair salon, Billy Shears, in a Marina District building on Madison Avenue.
They include Elizabeth Morrow Skin Care and Laura Lowery’s Island Spa Lounge.
Oil and Water Art Supply has also changed its business approach by merging with the Center for Creativity. The store, located upstairs in the Winslow Mall, now offers a large number of classes and workshops for all ages.
