By Laura Waxmann, Mission Local
With the exit of Chocolatier Blue Parlor at a site going for $10 a square foot and the appearance of other empty storefronts, it is beginning to seem to some that Valencia Street has become unsustainable for the independent artisans that it has long attracted.
Instead, the street has started to attract retailers and restaurants that are not chains — a formula retail law ensures that any business with more than 11 locations must get a special permit — but already have several locations. They are not homegrown in the Mission, but imported from elsewhere in San Francisco or the world.
These include the more recent stores to open — Chrome, DSPTCH, Balm and Veo Optics.
For some of those long on the street, higher rents are changing its once special vibe.
Read the complete story at Mission Local.
