Closures of nationwide brands and openings of new local favorites made the headlines in 2025. Here are 10 business stories of note from Community Impact coverage of North San Antonio.
Starbucks shuts down several San Antonio locations amidst nationwide closures
As the nationwide coffee chain plans to close locations across the country, several locations in San Antonio have already shut their doors.
In case you missed it
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol released a statement on Sept. 25 detailing the company’s plans for the future.
“Our overall company-operated count in North America will decline by about 1% in fiscal year 2025 after accounting for both openings and closures,” Niccol said in the statement.
While the business did not specify the exact number of locations that will close, two in the San Antonio area have already shut down.
Read the full Oct. 6 story by Reporter Andrew Creelman.
Genre-first bookstore Book Nerd opens in Castle Hills
Book Nerd, a new independent bookstore, has opened in Castle Hills.
The details
Owned by Lauren and Sean Richmond, Book Nerd features a wide selection of genres, including fantasy, science fiction, romantasy, mystery, thrillers, literary fiction and young adult fiction.
Lauren said the couple wanted to open a bookstore for a decade and decided the time was right when they noticed a resurgence in local bookstores.
“We wanted to create a place [for locals] to gather, learn and grow empathy,” Lauren said.
Read the full Oct. 16 story by Reporter Parks Kugle.
New local taco joint opens in North San Antonio
A new spot serving all things Tex-Mex has officially opened on San Antonio’s north side.
In case you missed it
Taco210Mexico opened on Oct. 2 at 14357 Blanco Road, inside the Cadillac Plaza shopping strip.
Co-owner Alejandro Vazquez said he wanted to open a relaxed, family-friendly restaurant for residents in the local community to enjoy.
“We’re here for service and a good place to eat,” Vazquez said.
Read the full Nov. 25 story by Reporter Andrew Creelman.
San Antonio, New Braunfels Joann locations to close amidst nationwide closures
Joann is closing all locations nationwide, and all San Antonio and New Braunfels locations have started going out of business sales.
What to know
Joann was founded in 1943 and has been offering an array of crafting products and services since.
The business filed for bankruptcy and announced the company would be sold in late February. An estimated 18 locations are expected to close in Texas.
Read the full March 10 story by Reporter Dacia Garcia.
The Porch bar replaces Billie Jean in Stone Oak
The Porch is now offering beer and cocktails in The Commons at Wilderness Oaks retail center.
The details
The new bar replaced retro-themed bar Billie Jean, which closed in December.
Co-owned by Tiana Garcia, The Porch held a soft opening Jan. 31. Garcia said a food menu will be introduced in the coming weeks. The Porch will also have a dedicated patio space for guests to enjoy drinks and food outside.
Santikos planning new theater, retail space in North San Antonio
Santikos Entertainment is planning a new theater and retail development in North San Antonio.
What you need to know
According to a real estate release from Santikos, it will be located at the corner of Trinity Park and Hwy. 281 near the Timberwood Park area.
Read the full Aug. 4 story by Reporter Andrew Creelman.
Trader Joe’s officially opens new location in North San Antonio
This nationwide grocery store chain has continued its expansion in San Antonio, recently opening a brand new location on the city’s north side.
In case you missed it
Trader Joe’s officially unveiled its newest brick-and-mortar at 11745 I-10, Ste. 410, in the Huebner Oaks Center on Nov. 4.
According to the store’s website, it’s San Antonio’s third overall location, with 500 scattered throughout the United States.
Read the full Nov. 6 story by Reporter Andrew Creelman.
Elsewhere Garden & Bar to open new location ‘Elsewhere Too’ in North San Antonio
The Elsewhere Garden & Bar in downtown San Antonio is expanding northward.
What’s new
The restaurant is opening a second location, called Elsewhere Too, in late August, Owner Terrin Fuhrmann told Community Impact.
It will be situated at 4513 N. Loop 1604 W. on the north side of the city, they announced on Instagram.
Elsewhere Too will have an outdoor seating area, a 53-foot-tall Ferris Wheel and an event pavilion, Fuhrmann said.
Read the full July 17 story by Reporter Andrew Creelman.
Chick-fil-A cancels plans for Stone Oak Parkway location
Chik-fil-A is no longer planning to pursue a new location on Stone Oak Parkway in North San Antonio.
The details
According to Chik-fil-A officials, the restaurant, known for grade A-quality chicken and top-notch customer service, is no longer pursuing a location at Stone Oak Parkway and Golf Canyon Road.
However, the restaurant does have a new location slated to open on UTSA Boulevard in 2026.
Read the full May 22 story by Reporter Parks Kugle.
Launch Entertainment to open three parks in greater SA
Launch Entertainment is opening three news parks in the greater San Antonio area as well as an additional three in Central Texas.
The details
With over 30 parks across the country, Launch Entertainment is known for a wide range of family entertainment options, such as arcades, bowling, climbing walls, indoor trampolines, ninja warrior courses and virtual reality.
Read the full April 29 story by Reporter Parks Kugle.