Nine New Businesses to Open on Main Street LWR

After a very successful 2011 on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, nine additional new businesses will be added to the popular shopping and dining center over first few months of 2012.

Soma, a national franchise owned by Chico’s, will open in March. Soma sells lingerie and intimates for women and will open right next door to Chico’s. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty will replace Prudential Palms beginning March 1, and J-Pan Sushi will replace Saijo Sushi. The American Shore Trading Company will soon open in the former Little Bookworms’ space.

“The addition of more national brands like Soma and Signature Sotheby’s is a testament to the success of Main Street,” said Brian Kennelly, president of LWR Commercial Realty. “It’s a huge compliment to have names like these and other local success stories like J-Pan, Fast N Fresh and Pincher’s all getting ready to open. Our ability to re-tenant the sushi restaurant and real estate office with less than 30 days' down time is a great indication of the strength of the market in Lakewood Ranch.”

American Shore is a local, family-owned business. In support of Lakewood Ranch’s green community status, the store will emphasize eco-friendly products, said owners Barry and Lynn Rainwater.

“American Shore is a brand new concept, and we’ll offer skateboard and surfboard-inspired apparel, accessories and shoes, plus our own private label of clothing,” said Barry Rainwater. “We’ll also have backpacks, skateboards, longboards and more.” They are hoping to be open by the spring.

Lorelei’s clothing store and the Naples Soap Company will be other additions coming soon, along with Fast N Fresh casual restaurant and Pincher’s Crab Shack. Berlin Patten, PLLC is also opening a third office on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. This is a full-service transactional and litigation firm, focusing primarily on real estate-related matters. Other offices are currently in Sarasota and Venice.

“We could not be more pleased with all of the new businesses choosing to come to Main Street,” said Julia DeCastro, Main Street property manager. “It is our goal to serve this community and provide a thriving community center that has something for everyone.”

Music on Main continues to be one of the most popular street festivals in the region. The free monthly music and street party on the first Friday of every month raises money for a different regional charity each month with proceeds from beer and wine sales. Last year, events on Main Street raised more than $300,000 for area charities.

- Main Street at Lakewood Ranch is the fashionable shopping venue located across from the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center on Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. Stylish boutiques, restaurants and offices blend to create an intimate small-town village theme.