It's the first weekend for business at the new Mall at University Town Center in Sarasota, and one local business owner is hoping her risk pays off.
Jackie Zumba moved her boutique “Jackie Z Style Co.,” from downtown Sarasota to the second floor of the mall. She says she knows there is a lot of risk involved in relocating a business, but she believes the mall will be very successful.
“Oh yeah a lot of risk," said Zumba. "I mean it was a huge financial investment for us to do the big move and do a build out here.”
Zumba says the end reward may be worth it.
“So far it has been really great," said Zumba. "Its been nice getting our name out there, further then just the downtown Sarasota clients.”
The new mall was packed Saturday with customers enjoying the activities at the mall. There was live music, acrobatic acts and more.
“I had a free facial," said Charmese Tucker. "So I am feeling good. I’m getting ready to go downstairs and eat some more.”
Melissa Galmis, 16, said she will most likely be shopping all weekend.
“I am just really happy that it's so close, because there are so many great stores here,” Galmis said.
So far Jackie Z is the first local store to drop their current location to be part of UTC, but the mall suspects others will follow.