With Starbucks set to return to the city centre, the future of the former Debenhams site unknown, and a planning application put forward by shoe shop Deichmann, the business scene in Salisbury has experienced some significant changes over the last few months.

We’ve welcomed new independents, witnessed the relocation of beloved businesses, and enjoyed the mystery of shop fronts changing overnight.

We've sadly said goodbye to a few shops and eateries too.

Here’s a round up of just some of the businesses that have opened, closed or relocated in 2022:

Yoga Stuff

What is thought to be Salisbury’s first dedicated yoga shop, providing equipment and active wear for men and women, opened at the end of last month.

Yoga Stuff owner, Ilona Coryndon Burns, has been teaching yoga for three years and this experience inspired her to set up a space to restore health and to release tension and anxiety.

She said: “Yoga is not just for bendy people. It doesn’t matter what size or shape you are, whether you think you are super unfit or are a fitness guru – it's available to everyone."

Salisbury Journal: Yoga Stuff, The Maltings, opened on March 26Yoga Stuff, The Maltings, opened on March 26

Sips

This new craft ale bar opened in The Maltings on March 31, mixing traditional beer culture with the modern market.

According to founder and owner Jacob Price, the first week or so of business was "manic", and in its first weekend of operation the bar completely sold out of beer.

Jacob said the name Sips came from his ethos on drinking: "I have never been a heavy drinker. My ethos is aways mindful drinking."

Salisbury Journal: Jacob Price, founder and owner of Sips, now open in The MaltingsJacob Price, founder and owner of Sips, now open in The Maltings

Bohemia

The popular and eclectic Bohemia, offering sustainable goods and clothes, has moved from its position in High Street to Poultry Cross.

Owner Robbie Barrus had a three-month lease in the previous space, to see if the brand and formula would work in the city before making a permanent commitment.

Following the relocation, with the official opening on March 26, Robbie said: "I have expanded the range. There are new throws, cushions and funny cards. After being open in the High Street, I have a good idea of what people here like.

“It's a fantastic city with so much heritage and history."

Salisbury Journal: Independent shop Bohemia has now reopened in Poultry CrossIndependent shop Bohemia has now reopened in Poultry Cross

Cactus Jacks

After more than 20 years in Salisbury, Cactus Jacks closed its doors on April 2.

The Mexican bar and restaurant had played host to so many special and life-changing events, including engagements and first dates.

Former director of Cactus Jacks, Joanna Kings, said that she had been at the restaurant for 22 years, so "it was time for a change".

Fisherton Warehouse, next door, has now applied for planning permission to extend into the restaurant. 

Salisbury Journal: Happy customers at Cactus Jacks from over the yearsHappy customers at Cactus Jacks from over the years

The Hair Extension Cave

Previously on Fisherton Street, The Hair Extension Cave has now moved into its new and much bigger home near the Poultry Cross.

Previously talking to the Journal, owner, and UK Hair and Beauty awards finalist, Molly Cook said the business has "outgrown" the other premises, as with an increase in products and the training academy there wasn't enough space.

She added the new site is "an amazing location", spread across three floors.

"[Fisherton Street] was perfect five years ago, but we've got so much going on now," she said.

The salon welcomed clients to the new site on Monday, April 11.

Salisbury Journal: The Hair Extension Cave in its new home, next to the Poultry CrossThe Hair Extension Cave in its new home, next to the Poultry Cross

Times Square

Watch shop Times Square, in Old George Mall, closed for business on March 26.

Part of a notice on its door read: "We are grateful to you for all your business and support over the years."

The Old George Mall shopping centre, which owns the site, has confirmed that its lease with Times Square had ended, and the centre will be looking for a new occupant for the site.

Salisbury Journal: Times Square closed in the Old George MallTimes Square closed in the Old George Mall

Mr Shawarma Lebanese Takeaway

New food and flavours have arrived in Salisbury thanks to a Lebanese eatery, which opened along the New Canal on April 2.

Owner of Mr Shawarma Yousuf Jasim, who lived in Baghdad, Iraq, before moving to Salisbury 18 years ago, said: "It will definitely bring something new for people to try. It will be something different in Salisbury and a different taste of food."

The takeaway's menu has a wide variety of dishes for customers to try including Shawarma platters, falafel wraps and Baba Ganouj.

Salisbury Journal: Yousuf Jasim of Mr Shawarma Lebanese Takeaway, along New CanalYousuf Jasim of Mr Shawarma Lebanese Takeaway, along New Canal

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