Jay F. Jeweler, a longtime presence in Apple Valley, is preparing to move to Times Square from its current location in Southport Center, where it has operated for 21 years.
The store's new home will be about a mile away, between the Apple Valley Liquor Store and the recently remodeled Warners' Stellian.
Jay Feichtinger, who founded the business as a jewelry repair shop 25 years ago, said the new space will be about twice the size of his current store. He said he needs the larger space to accommodate his jewelry design and manufacturing business, which continues to grow. Almost all of the fine and bridal jewelry sold by the shop is designed and produced on the premises, he said.
Feichtinger said the new space will accommodate more equipment used in manufacturing, like milling machines and 3-D printers. He said he also hopes to increase the number of employees who do goldsmithing from three to five.
Feichtinger said he started looking for a larger location three years ago. "I looked at buying a building and constructing something. When it all shook out, I was fortunate to find this place in an existing center."
He said he expects to begin work on the new 2,530-square-foot store this month and hopes the relocation is completed by early September.
Frozen yogurt chain expands
Self-service yogurt chains continue to pop up around the Twin Cities, including Inver Grove Heights, where a CherryBerry outlet will open in Cahill Plaza.
CherryBerry allows customers to make their own frozen yogurt treats by choosing from 50 rotating fat-free flavors and toppings that include sauces, granola, nuts, fresh fruit, candies and sprinkles. After customers have filled their cups, they weigh their creations and pay for them by the ounce.
