Oxford Square expects new businesses

A growing town brings new business to Oxford’s Square with the opening of three new restaurants this spring. The addition to the Square could bring new revenue as well as hurt the current restaurants in business.

The Square’s location is ideal for students, retirees, and visitors to have an afternoon stroll and grab a bite to eat. It is understandable why a restaurant owner would seek the location, as it’s a profitable place compared to other areas of town.

Each year the University of Mississippi has a 7% student population growth, according to the Daily Mississippian. This steady influx of students benefits the town’s revenue.

With an unpromising economy, it is unlikely that these businesses won’t face a challenge to stay open. A substantial amount of restaurants that attempted to stay afloat closed within months of their opening.

Jim Bulian, owner of Old Venice Pizza Co. said, “Everyone wants a piece of the pie, but the pie has already been divvied up. ” The new restaurants are facing a battle for a piece of that pie.

Five building permits have been submitted to the city of Oxford’s Building Commissioner, two of which are for Boure’ and Lenora’s relocation and expansion. The remaining three permits are for the new competitors, Soulshine Pizza, South Depot Taco Shop and Fat Cats Catfish.

The location of the Square however doesn’t always hold strong for new restaurants, and some restaurant owners feel the additions could be a threat to their business. Varsity Bar and Grill closed quickly after opening even with the trial of two different menus.

“We are working on a new menu in hopes to stay alive and afloat with the upcoming competition. We want to have an edge on the competition,” John Allgood, manager at Old Venice Pizza Co. said.

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