On hot summer days, Yodigity Yogurt's frozen treats are in high demand. But it was the business climate that first proved challenging four years ago, as its owners shopped for space. "Frozen yogurt wasn't the cool thing yet. So we actually had a hard time getting retail space where they'd take a look at us and put us in," said part owner Dave Swinney.
Now, things have changed. Yodigity actually found itself recruited by other landlords, before owners decided on a new location in the Pavilion West shopping center in Northwest Fresno. A grand opening is scheduled for July 31st. "The landlords are great. They're willing to work and negotiate. So the areas we weren't privileged to have a spot at before are opening up. We're trying to take advantage of opportunities," said Swinney.
Clovis boutique Ooh La La also saw an opportunity across town. It opened a second location in Pavilion West three months ago. "We have a lot of customers coming in from the other side of town, saying, 'I wish I could come here more often, but you're so far away," said owner Janet Danielian.
Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce CEP Al Smith says it's too early to call the expansions part of a larger trend, but business owners and consumers have reason to feel optimistic. "It's always kind of a crapshoot. But the rewards are great when you time it right, and I think a lot of people are looking at that now," said Smith.
A Tower District mainstay is also growing. Teazer World Tea Market is opening a River Park location this summer, taking over what used to be a Jamba Juice.
While the changing economy has some expanding, others are re-thinking their strategies. Bouquet of Fruits is returning to its former home and retail roots in the Pavilion West shopping center, after three years of wholesale and internet business only.
