Main Street Gets New Businesses

Visitors to the downtown area are more likely to see “Going Out of Business” signs than “Coming Soon” or “Grand Opening" these days.

Yet several business owners are taking a leap of faith and opening in the heart of the recession. Rock'n Joe owner Rob Kruzner is among the brave. He opened his Hard Rock Café style coffee shop March 25th.

“It’s been absolutely great, better than I ever expected,” Kurzner, 26, said. He added he had “no nerves” about opening in the current economy. 

So far, his gamble has paid off. The medium-sized shop has been “absolutely packed” for lunch, with customers often waiting for tables. While dinner hasn’t been the busiest, business picks up again with a “big dessert crowd.” One man actually came in four times in a single day.

Opening the fifth branch of a popular regional franchise has helped Kurzner build a quick customer base. Other storeowners don’t have that luxury, such as Rock’n Joe’s future next-door neighbor, clothing boutique Bungalow, which is set to open Sunday.

Owner Eve Golden isn’t worried about the recession because, “women are women. We will always shop,” she said. And no matter what the economy, “Shopping is a pick-me-up for many women.”

Golden chose Millburn because she felt there was a missing niche, one her store will fill.

“There are pre-teen and teen stores and then high-end stores," she said. "There aren’t any truly modern, contemporary, fashion forward places. This will be a place where a mother and her teenage daughter will be able to shop together and both find something totally appropriate."

She acknowledges a slight apprehension in opening, but says it is not just because of the economy.

“There is definitely a natural fear, but that’s the same whether the economy is good or not," she said. "In my gut I see an opportunity in the downswing.”

With her background—she has 10 years experience in the fashion industry, several as a fashion editor for Ladies Home Journal—she will be able to help customers find clothing and accessories on any budget. She said she “pounded the pavement to find the real gems.”

Adding to her optimism is the new coffee shop next door. She feels that with the two new stores, Main Street is getting a bit of a facelift.

“It’s a cool little corner right now,” she said.