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 drop on record.
Even though the Lake Travis-Westlake area has not been immune to these conditions, here are five local businesses that have recently celebrated one year in business, either outright or at a new location.
Artemis Mediterranean Grill, located at 42025 RM 620, Bee Cave, celebrated its first anniversary in September. The restaurant offers Mediterranean dishes, including lamb gyros, kebabs and pita wraps. 512-520-5224. www.artemismediterraneangrill.com
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream will celebrate the first anniversary of its Four Points location in January. The ice cream shop, located at 3303 N. RM 620, Austin, serves sundaes, cakes, shakes and more. 512-582-0010. www.brusters.com
Frog & the Bull celebrated its first anniversary Nov. 12 at 4300 N. Quinlan Park Road, Austin, in the Four Points region. The Iberian restaurant, owned by David Fernandez, features a diverse menu inspired by different cultures, as well as beer, wine and craft cocktail options. 512-291-2642. www.frogandthebull.com
Runaway Luna Lifestyle had its first anniversary in November at its Hill Country Galleria shop at 12800 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave. Founded by a mother-daughter team, Runaway Luna is both a coffee shop and handbag retailer. The shop offers Australian-style coffees and baked goods alongside embossed leather handbags and accessories. 512-888-1320. www.runawaylunalifestyle.com
The Backyard and Patio Store, located at 1501 W. Hwy. 71, Bee Cave, celebrated its first anniversary Dec. 1. The company offers a variety of outdoor products, including pottery, grills and patio furniture. 737-802-3191. www.thebackyardandpatiostore.com
The Blushing Bride Boutique celebrated its first anniversary Nov. 12 in Westlake’s Davenport Village at 3801 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Ste. J100, Austin. The bridal shop carries formal wear for brides, bridesmaids, grooms, mothers of the bride and flower girls. 512-900-6468. www.theblushingbridgeboutique.com
Salt Traders Coastal Cooking celebrated the first anniversary of its Zilker location in October at 1101 S. MoPac Expressway, Austin. The seafood restaurant offers various dishes, including a shrimp and lobster roll, wood-fired salmon and raw bar selections. Salt Traders Coastal Cooking has an additional location in Round Rock. 737-484-0095. www.salttraderscc.com
Brian Rash contributed to this report.
