Mar 10, 2009

While some businesses are closing, others openBy Mary WestonChicoER.com

Oroville — Teresa Bachellerie milled around her small florist shop Tuesday, looking at hundreds of gift items stacked on shelves and hanging on walls.

“It’s hard to believe that in about a month all these walls will be empty,” she said.

Like some other small business owners in Oroville, Bachellerie is closing the doors after months of decreased sales.

But the business arena in Oroville is somewhat like musical chairs. While some get up and leave, others come in and take a seat.

However, Bachellerie can’t wait until the economy turns around, as her sales have dropped so much since last fall that she’s losing money.

In February alone, Bachellerie said sales were down $8,000 to $10,000 from last year.

“People are decreasing their discretionary spending, and flowers are an extra,” Bachellerie said.

Bachellerie has been liquidating store merchandise, selling inventory and equipment to other floral shops.

By April 30, The Flower Pot at 1115 Oro Dam Blvd. will be closed. Bachellerie will help her husband with his four-wheel drive auto repair business and work part time as a manager for a local pizza parlor.

While some businesses have taken a hit, others seem to thrive. Claudia Knauss of the Oroville Chamber of Commerce said she has talked to several business owners who said sales increased this month, including a jewelry store, some restaurants and a computer business.

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