Despite Tough Economy, Storeowners Take a Chance on New Canaan

From job loss to declining property values, New Canaan residents have not been spared the effects of the ailing economy. And while empty storefronts in downtown New Canaan are a painful reminder of tough times, a recent influx of new businesses could be a sign of relief.

Currently, there are less than 10 vacant storefronts in downtown New Canaan—a significant dip from last year's peak of 18—according to Chamber of Commerce estimates. From chocolate shops to chicken joints, fresh storefronts are sprouting in New Canaan and it could have something to do with the town's charm.

"We loved the fact Elm Street is a one-way street, it seemed like a really easy place to shop," said Susan Gilissen, who is opening Belgique Chocolatier on Elm Street in August. Gilissen says she was considering a few towns in Fairfield County, but felt New Canaan was the perfect fit for her expanding business.

"We liked the small town feeling New Canaan has… The people are friendly and we just liked the feeling," said Gilissen.

Gilissen isn't the only storeowner to be lulled into New Canaan. The owners of Chicken Joe's, which opened in June at 151 Elm Street, were also deliberate in their choice of location.

"This is a beautiful town, the people are friendly and the location is great," said co-owner Joe Pietrafeso. "Business has exceeded our expectations… I can't speak highly enough of the people in town."

And while empty storefronts still dot the windowpanes of Main and Elm Street, there are some landlords who have taken a creative approach to dealing with the vacancies.

Arnold Karp, property manager of 34 Elm Street, has brought a pop-up art gallery to occupy his storefront while looking for a permanent tenant. Lee Millazzo, owner of the Samuel Owen Gallery, believes there's great importance in maintaining the appearance of a vacant storefront.

"It's really good for potential tenants," said Millazzo. "They can come in and see [the store] operating and picture their business in this space."

Millazzo also sees his pop-up gallery as beneficial to surrounding stores.

"All the other retailers on the street are thrilled because nobody wants a 3,000 square foot space sitting empty," added Millazzo. 

While there is still much progress to be made in filling all the empty spaces, Chamber of Commerce Director Tucker Murphy believes the increase in populated storefronts bodes well for the town.

 "I love that new businesses are opening in New Canaan," said Murphy. "People looking to open stores in Fairfield County certainly have their pick of towns, but they are choosing New Canaan and that's great."