For example, in 2020, the number of private sector establishments that were less than a year old numbered 804,398. Second-year businesses totaled 500,325, and the number continues to decrease for each additional year.
Those figures, combined with a revenue-killing global pandemic, make survival after one year even more improbable, according to expert sources.
A June report from the National Bureau of Economic Statistics found that due to COVID-19 restrictions and mandates, the number of small businesses in the U.S fell from 15 million in February to 11.5 million in April, which represents a 22% drop. The report cites that two-month shift as the largest such drop on record.
Even though Georgetown has not been immune to these conditions, here are five local businesses that opened right as the coronavirus pandemic hit Central Texas and are still open today.
Barking Armadillo Brewing
Barking Armadillo Brewing opened in Georgetown on March 14. The family-owned brewing operation began work on its product in 2013. Its taproom is located at 507 River Bend Drive, Georgetown. Barking Armadillo original and rotating guest beers are available in the taproom, as are wines and nonalcoholic beverages. 512-240-5137. www.barkingarmadillo.com
Kork Wine Bar
Kork Wine Bar opened near the Georgetown Square on March 7. It offers approximately 100 wines from around the world as well as beer and small plates, including salads, desserts and Neapolitan-style pizzas. Kork Wine Bar occupies the bottom floor of the two-story Watkins Insurance Group office building on Main Street at 815 S. Main St., Ste. 101, Georgetown. 512-240-5999. www.korkwine.com
Mango Tango Bistro and Bar
Mango Tango Bistro and Bar opened one block east of the Georgetown Square on March 20. Menu items include fried rice, pho, pot stickers, stir-fried squash and more. The restaurant said on its Facebook page March 16 that it will offer carryout and delivery options for those who do not want to dine in. Mango Tango is located at 114 E. Seventh St., Ste, 116, Georgetown. 512-487-6187. www.facebook.com/mtgeorgetown
Truecore Fitness
Truecore Fitness opened on the Georgetown Square on March 2. The fitness studio offers private and group sessions in Pilates machines, barre, indoor cycling and boxing. Classes are 50 minutes. Truecore is located above Barrels & Amps at 209 W. Eighth St., Georgetown. 512-888-4336. www.truecoretx.com
Ichiro Asian Bistro & Wine Bar
Ichiro Asian Bistro & Wine Bar opened in The Summit at Rivery Park development on March 16. Menu items for the upscale Asian cuisine restaurant include sushi, lamb chops and rice bowls. It also offers over 150 wines. Ichiro is located at 1500 Rivery Blvd., Ste. 2120, Georgetown. 512-688-4288. http://ichirosushiwinebar.com/
Brian Rash contributed to this report.
