More downtown Winter Garden businesses unable to renew leases

Downtown Winter Garden businesses recently have seen a change in ownership, leaving many devastated due to the inability to renew their leases. 

Polka Dotz has taken to social media to announce it will vacate its space in June. 

"This is not a decision we would have ever chosen, but we were not given an option," the post said.  "After 19 years, all we received was a form letter. That hurts. ... We have had the privilege of employing local families, helping young people work their way through college and building relationships that go far beyond a retail transaction." 

Now, Polka Dotz is securing a new home, but not in Winter Garden. 

"We will keep you posted as to where we are going but for now we are here, in our beloved home, until the end of June," the post read. "Please stop by and express your love, thoughts and concerns. We are taking as many videos as we can to remember the love and our downtown community." 

Polka Dotz is not the only one being asked to vacate its premises. 

Driftwood Market also is facing the same challenge. 

"Our building was sold last October to a new owner who plans to bring a restaurant to downtown, and as a result, our lease will not be renewed at the end of May," its announcement said. "This was completely unexpected and the past few months have been an emotional rollercoaster for us." 

Driftwood Market said it is now exploring options outside of downtown Winter Garden, but its owners truly believe their time downtown is not done. 

"Change can be bittersweet, but it can also bring new opportunities," the post said. "Alongside our search for a new space, we’re also focused on strengthening Driftwood Market in other ways — expanding our online offerings, adding more options for delivery and local pickup, and growing our wholesale side of the business — all while thoughtfully exploring additional ways to keep Driftwood Market thriving for years to come." 

They thanked community members for their continuous support during this time, and will share updates as they come.