Jacksonville Florida Times-Union reports that the city has experienced an increase in small business openings, adding to its already vibrant local business scene. From a vintage boutique in Springfield to new bookstores in the urban core, 2023 has been a year of growth for small businesses. 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 gearing up for Small Business Saturday. Some new shops to check out and support include two independent bookstores in Jacksonville, Happy Medium Books Cafe and Literary Lounge. Femme Fire Books, a bookstore that has been open for a year, is also celebrating the milestone of having a physical location.

In addition to bookstores, 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, a store offering plants, home decor, and unique gifts, opened in Riverside while Greenhouse, a bar