For nearly a decade, America has been experiencing a ‘retail apocalypse’, the mass shuttering of thousands of brick and mortar stores, due in large part to the rise of Amazon and online shopping. Huge companies such as Sears, Toys R Us, and Forever 21 have all filed for bankruptcy. The way Americans shop is changing, with the latest trends being things like grocery delivery and Amazon’s same-day delivery.

But there’s one type of retailer that has bounced back after being hit hard, and actually experienced growth over the last ten years — independent bookstores. While chain book sellers like Borders and Waldenbooks have closed, indie bookstores are on the rise. 

According to the American Bookseller’s Association, between 2009 and 2015, more than 570 independent bookstores opened in the U.S., representing about a 35 percent increase. Indie book shops are thriving by providing community gathering spaces, hosting events, and expanding their merchandise beyond books. 

And although Downtown St Pete is home to the incredible Haslam’s Book Store, the neighborhood lacks a smaller, independent, and highly-curated bookstore. That is, until next month when Alsace Walentine opens the highly-anticipated Tombolo Books at 2153 1st Avenue South in the Grand Central District.

A former Verizon retail store that has sat vacant for over five years will soon be home to EDGE Animal Hospital, a state-of-the-art veterinary facility. Located at 913 1st Avenue North in the EDGE District of Downtown St. Pete, the new clinic will be owned by Dr. Raul Buso, who also owns the Haines Road Animal Hospital.

As more residents continue to move into Downtown St Pete, we will begin to see more retail catering to residents, as opposed to retail for tourists or day-trippers. That means more barbershops, hardware stores, and animal hospitals in addition to restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.

Some may remember when this building almost became a Dunkin’ Donuts with a drive thru in 2018. Luckily, a large number of residents and business owners turned out to a DRC meeting in opposition and the committee listened, denying the Dunkin Donuts permission to construct a drive-thru. Soon after, Dunkin’ walked away from the deal.