1401 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek
In June we learned that Union & Fifth, a high-end discount clothing reseller (with 75% of the proceeds going directly to the charity of the donor’s choice) opened a pop-up shop in downtown Walnut Creek and according to a sign in their window they are closing. You can still shop online at their website here.
Wells Fargo recently closed their location at Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Rd. in Lafayette and will also be closing in Moraga West Berkeley this March. According to this CNN Money article, the closures are, “a reflection of Americans’ preference for online and mobile banking these days.” Considering how convenient online banking (even check deposits) has become, I’m not at all surprised by this.
Update: The Moraga branch is not closing. The West Berkeley Business Center is closing in March.
1201 S. Main St, Walnut Creek
In April we learned that a Golden State Warriors Team Store would be opening in downtown Walnut Creek and although still a popup, more permanent signage is visible and they will be open through 2018.
Orinda Theatre Square
A new popup shop, Lina Shatara Jewelry opened this month in Orinda Theatre Square. Check out their website here. They will be open here through January 2nd from 11am – 7pm.
From their website:
Lina Shatara’s love of travel inspired her collection along with the wealth of visuals (geometric patterns, organic shapes and calligraphy) that boldly influence her designs. Turning sharp yet simplistic pieces into edgy contemporary jewelry has become the DNA of the brand, although not one she is bound to. Every season is about challenging herself creatively. Her use of mixed materials, oxidized metals and matte finishes add elements of surprise to pieces, creating an undeniable unisex appeal.
Blackhawk Plaza, Danville
The Houston-based women’s accessories, jewelry and clothing store Charming Charlie is closing later this month in Blackhawk Plaza in Danville. According to this Houston Chronicle article they “filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Friday with a plan to revamp operations, reduce debt and shrink its chain of jewelry and accessories stores in a hotly competitive retail environment.”
Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek
The women’s clothing store Free People, which we learned would be relocating to Broadway Plaza back in July, is scheduled to open in their new location by the end of March. Check out the Free People website here and read about their story here.
The Veranda, Concord
The other day I was able to get a preview of the IMAX movie theater in the Veranda shopping center in Concord and that is also the day that 365 by Whole Foods opened at the other end of the center. On one end is the organic food company Urban Remedy (menu here) and on the other is Oregon-based, vegan fast food restaurant Next Level Burger. Check out their menu here.
The 365 Whole Foods looks like a typical Whole Foods with pre-packaged meats and a focus on “365” items. There is a great looking vegetable/fruit section as well as a separate taqueria section towards the back. They even have a rewards program. Considering how Amazon now owns Whole Foods it’s not surprising that many aspects of the store are electronically-based, such as beer and wine info and bulk weigh (see photos after the jump).
More photos after the jump…
Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek
The baby and children’s clothing store Monica + Andy opened less than a month after we first learned they would be replacing ivivva/XCVI in Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek right on time for the holiday shopping season. All clothing and blankets are made with organic cotton and they can order anything not available in-store and have it shipped to you directly. Beginning in January there will be various programs featuring local artists, musicians etc. hosted in the back of their store. Check out their online collection here.
It’s interesting to see online stores moving into retail locations, I think this is just the beginning…
Plaza Escuela, Walnut Creek
In October we learned that a Joseph Abboud section would be opening within Men’s Wearhouse in Plaza Escuela in downtown Walnut Creek and it has now opened. Note the separate entrance that has been added on the Locust St. side.
145 E. Prospect Ave, Danville
Earlier this month we learned that Lemon, a new popup shop featuring gifts, baby and home goods would be opening where Edge Boutique used to be in Danville and they are now open through December 31st. Check out their Instagram page here.
From an email:
Lemon is the ultimate gift shop! With items for baby, toddler, women, home and seasonal. Many items are local handmade making each piece even more special. Lemon is own and ran by a local wife and mother of 3, Sara Weymouth. They even have gift wrapping to make all the holiday shopping easy.
More photos of the inside after the jump…