Home furnishing stores cluster in SLO

In the last couple of years, home decorating retailers have opened a "concentrated and varied" selection of stores in San Luis Obispo. Whether attracted by the recent influx of wealthy baby boomers and retirees or the area's enviable lifestyle, retailers are opening up home furnishing shops like never before. Some such as Fortini Home, Garden and Design are started by county natives who already have a foothold in the area, while the Black Sea Gallery is part of a statewide chain.

Will they all survive? Some won't, that's just the nature of business. But the concentration of stores could have a positive impact for all if SLO becomes a destination for shoppers from outside the community. A little joint promotion and publicity could help it become known as a hub for this type of retailing.