“We’re trying to bring science and analytics to economic development,” said the founder of Richmond-based EDai, which considers a lot more than incentives.
Startup gives AI jolt to economic development site-selection process
Jack Jacobs
Jack joined BizSense in 2020, covering startups, retail, healthcare, public companies and nonprofits. He previously reported for the Virginia Gazette and Tidewater Review. He is a graduate of Christopher Newport University. Reach him at jack@richmondbizsense.com or 804-554-6545.
Richmond menswear company Ledbury tries shoes on for size
The high-end clothier has launched the Tangier footwear brand, starting with its first in-house boots for $425 a pair.
Godiva Chocolatier shuts down Short Pump Town Center location
The Belgian company plans to close or sell all 128 of its North America stores by the end of March due to the drop in foot traffic during the pandemic.
Hanover supervisors give Hickory Grove development a thumbs down
The developer is “at a little bit of a loss of what we will do next with the property” after a plan for townhomes and commercial space was nixed.
Wellness brand brewing new coffee-and-tea store in Regency mall
D’Haiti Wellness, which has operated online since 2019, plans to open a retail location in the West End shopping center in April.
Starbucks plans to build new cafe at Gayton Crossing shopping center
It will have a drive-thru, according to plans filed with Henrico County, something the coffee chain’s existing Gayton Crossing store doesn’t.
Container Store opens first Richmond area location in Short Pump
The retailer took 19,000 square feet at 11732 W. Broad St. In other Short Pump news, burger chain Five Guys plans to open a restaurant at 12300 W. Broad St.
Lumber wholesalers’ new retail concept puts down roots in Richmond
“It’s a bit of a Tuesday Morning, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Home Goods of lumber,” Sawmill Surplus co-founder Dante Diorio said.
Sportspage Bar and Grille slides into new home in Goochland County
The 5,000-square foot space previously home to Italian restaurant Amici di Enzo is now the local sports bar chain’s fifth location.
‘Airbnb’ of income-based room rentals moves into Central Virginia
Atlanta-based PadSplit will provide an online marketplace of housing options in the Petersburg area initially, with more Richmond properties to be added later.