New Businesses Kick Off In Downtown Montgomery

by WAKA Action 8 News

Montgomery is continuing to welcome new businesses downtown.

And some hope this is just another step on the way to more growth in the Classic City. 

The business incubators by the Riverwalk stood vacant for about six months before Charlie’s Donuts and Yogurt moved in.

Mayor Todd Strange helped cut the ribbon and welcome the newest business to downtown.

“Downtown Montgomery is on the roll, Montgomery is on the roll and people want to be a part of that. So having this opportunity, we’ve got some conversations going on right now with a possibility for a coffee grinding situation.

Jeff Ratcliffe owns the location. He spent 30 years as a banker but decided that he wanted to get out and work in the donut business. He says the location is perfect for jumpstarting a business.

“Foot traffic is great. It’s right across from two major hotels. All of the business downtown, the law offices, the banks, the accounting firms, just a lot of people down here,” said Ratcliffe.

This isn’t the only business to open in the location. Less than two weeks ago, the Bullet food truck opened as well. 

The area has been drawing decent crowds, but now that there are two businesses, some in Montgomery are even more excited for the development. 

“I think it’ll be great. I think it’s a great idea. They need to come out and open more things for people to experience,” said Gwen Coker.

“When you get out and walk around downtown there’s a whole lot to see and to do,” said Brenda Whitney. 

Charlie’s Donuts and Yogurt will only be at the location for a year. Then they business will have to move and make room for another fledgling store. 

“There’s so much development going on downtown right now. I think we just kind of keep our eyes open and find the right spot,” said Ratcliffe.