It has been a joy to hear about and report on some new and expanding businesses around Ann Arbor recently; Dog-O-Mat, Blue House, Arbor Farms, and more.

As the economy continues to ebb and flow, however, there are some closings to be expected as well. One such closing is Scrapbook Haven. Owners Andy and Emily Melcher blame the economic downturn for the closings, stating that people are simply “not buying.”

Scrapbook Haven was once located in Westgate Mall, but moved to the current location larger location on West Stadium only last June. The store has offered the latest tools and accessories in scrapbooking, and classes on how to best use them.

The Scrapbook Haven is running a going out of business sale where customers can find all items at 50% off or more. Melcher says the sale has already brought shoppers into the store, and hopes he will be ready to close the doors by Monday.

Andy says his upcoming plans include returning to a career in network design and support. He and wife Emily also hope to stay connected to the scrapbooking community by teaching classes through Ann Arbor Rec and Ed.

Rainbow Creations, another Ann Arbor creativity venue, also closed recently. The do-it-yourself pottery studio on Zeeb Road has been vacant for over a month now. No word as to what may become of that vacancy.

I can share some information about some newcomers that will be joining us soon in Ann Arbor, however.

Sally’s Beauty Supply will be moving in soon on Carpenter Road. Sally’s already has two nearby locations, on Oak Valley Drive in Ann Arbor, and on Ellsworth in Ypsilanti. Fantastic Sam’s and Foxy Nails, salons located in the same plaza, are hoping for increased traffic thanks to this newest location.

Neighbors are also anticipating the opening of Packard Marketplace. This ,8000 square foot development is on Packard just east of Platt. The city planner’s office tells me that the owner will be occupying the building in about one month.

Architect Mike Van Goor confirmed and says owner Hyun Bang and son Jason Bang are planning a grand opening near the end of April.

The Galleria will be a neighborhood supermarket specializing in Korean foods.

Other ethnic grocers in the neighborhood are also doing well, and Bang hopes that the retailers can complement each other. Rather than be in competition, he foresees an international and healthy focal point that can reflect a variety of different tastes.

Originally this complex was designed to house 7 tenants, but Bang decided to use the majority of the space to open the supermarket. One space remains open for rental at roughly 1,200 square feet.

Also new to town will be BoNa Coffee. BoNa is short for Bohemian National. The company plans to open 3 Michigan locations, and Ann Arbor will be the first. Though no address is given, the 2,000 square foot site is "adjacent to the University of Michigan," according to company information, and will house BoNa Coffee Company's products and merchandise.

I hear their carrot pineapple muffins are delicious but deceptively healthy. Most locations are open around the clock, and on rainy days they include a free cookie with every cup of joe.

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail and business news in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.