Wellesley business in 2009: Lose some, win some

The economy and other factors led to the shutdown or exodus of a host of Wellesley business in 2009.

The most notable was Brigham’s shutdown in November after the company fell on hard times and got bought out (the crooks who robbed the store and August probably didn’t make a killing). Brigham’s had been in town for more than 50 years. But don’t despair: No sooner had the shutdown signs been posted than a new sign touting the arrival of Lobelia appeared, noting this new establishment will be run by the same team that managed the local Brigham’s.

In the meantime, the town isn’t lacking in frozen treats. Gelato Cafe opened its doors near the start of the year, selling gelato, coffee, chocolates and more.  Not exactly a Brigham’s replacement, of course.

In the same Washington St. strip that Brigham’s called home, Thornhill Gallery moved out and H&A Jewelers moved in.

Another longtime Wellesley business, Kaps, closed down its men’s clothing store early in the year after the business fell on hard times. But into town, in Linden Square,  stepped Jos. A. Bank, another men’s clothing store.

For women, 2009 spelled the end of Betsy’s, but saw Moxie brave the tough economy and expand from Beacon Hill into Wellesley. Blue Tulip closed its doors in Linden Square.

Wellesley Kitchens vacated its spot at 398 Washington St., but the town also welcomed the Wellesley Home Design Center to Wellesley Square, taking over the space left empty by The Monogram Store, and Art of Tile & Stone. Another kitchen design business, Divine Kitchens, has announced plans to move into Wellesley early next year as well. Leonards opened in Linden Square, providing a new local outlet for furniture.

Yoga studios popped up all over town, with H.Y.P. and A Little Yoga making their debuts. Get in Shape for Women and In Your Defense Martial Arts also ensured that local residents stay buff.

Just to make sure Wellesleyites don’t work themselves out into oblivion, lots of new eateries made their debuts, including Wellesley North End Pizza, Bobby’s Grille, Singh’s Cafe and California Pizza Kitchen. Panera tried to get into town, but had the door slammed in its face. Around the corner: The Milestone taking over Vidalia’s old spot in Wellesley Square and Upper Crust Pizzeria moving into the space vacated earlier this year by SCORE. For quick snacks, Village Market opened recently in between Bobby’s and Wellesley North End Pizza.