It’s not all doom and gloom in downtown Victoria.
While concerns around safety and street issues continue to shape public perceptions of downtown Victoria, a number of local businesses are choosing to stay, expand, and invest.
According to the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA), several business owners have made notable moves in recent months, including expansions, relocations, and permanent openings in previously temporary spaces.
Here’s a look at some of the latest changes in the downtown core:
- In March, Seth Asch, owner of cocktail bar Cenote, opened a new brunch spot called Volta in the space directly above his existing business
- Puzzle Lab — known for its locally made wooden puzzles — moved into a larger Government Street location across the street from its original storefront in April
- Grove Outdoors, which focuses on second-hand outdoor apparel, expanded into a neighbouring unit to accommodate growth in mid-April
- In May, Artavi Skate & Snow relocated from North Park to the 600-block of Johnson Street
- The Natural Hair Salon launched Summit Salon Academy Victoria, a downtown-based training space for aspiring stylists in June
- Also in mid-June, Curated House & Home moved from a small unit in Market Square to a more visible Lower Johnson Street storefront
- Last month, design brand Autonomous Furniture moved into the Powerhouse building, a heritage space now home to several creative businesses
- Print Hole, a printmaking studio and gallery, opened its doors at 712 Cormorant Street this month after previously operating out of a shared co-working space
- The team behind Serena’s Pizza and Hoagies will soon open Coop’s Chicken and Smash Burgers at 609 Yates, formerly home to Sült
In addition to those moves, a handful of businesses that originally operated as pop-ups or event vendors have now secured permanent locations, including Routine Coffee, Fizz Bottle Shop, Key Vintage, and Murder Burger.
“We know the headlines don’t reflect the full picture,” said DVBA CEO Jeff Bray in a statement. “But these examples highlight the real momentum we’re seeing downtown. They reflect the passion, creativity, and long-term commitment business owners are making despite the challenges.”
Related: 19 new businesses breathe fresh life into downtown Victoria
