Garden City Center introduces newer stores ahead of Black Friday shopping

CRANSTON, R.I. (WJAR) — Garden City Center in Cranston has welcomed several new businesses, and just in time for Black Friday weekend.

Shoppers are expected to pack Garden City Center in Cranston the Friday after Thanksgiving for special discounts at national and local retailers.

“Black Friday is always the real traditional kick off. People have five less days this year to shop so we expect bigger crowds on that weekend also,” said Garden City Center General Manager Joe Koechel.

Koechel said there is a shift in shopping, especially among Millennial and Gen Z consumers.

“They might look at things online but they’re really coming out to the store to be able to touch, feel, interact with the sales associates here,” said Koechel. “If they don’t have the size in the store, the stores can order it.”

According to a holiday shopping survey, shoppers plan to spend an average of $613 this season, up from $591 in 2023.

Apart from festive décor and activities, customers can expect newer stores like Vineyard Vines which opens Friday, Air & Anchor, Blue Mercury, Lilly Pulitzer, Free People, Rowan and more.

This time around, there are businesses that will not be available at Garden City Center.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza is closed.

Applebee’s is also closed after a devastating fire last month, and Bistro 22 next door is also closed due to water damage.

Kaffeology is one of the new shops here at Garden City Center which opened up just this May.

Founder Andreea Marin said she’s a bit nervous, but she’s excited for her first Black Friday weekend at Garden City Center.

“We are expecting it to be really busy but we’re going to staff it properly,” said Marin. “We’re going to have a lot of deals going on and ultimately we’re just ready to furl your entire day for your shopping.”

Kaffeology will offer 20% off of all retail sold at the restaurant, all by women-owned businesses.

If you buy a $100 gift card, you will get $20 and if you buy a $50 gift card, you will get $10.

Shopper Dyanne Crotty has been shopping at Garden City Center for about 15 years.

Crotty said online shopping doesn’t compare to in-person shopping at Garden City Center during the holidays

“The thing is you can walk around get some fresh air and the variety of stores are really great,” said Crotty.

Garden City Center will have their annual Holiday Stroll with the Christmas Tree Lighting and Santa’s arrival on Nov. 30.

Pictures with Santa will begin on Nov. 22.

For more information, visit the Garden City Center website.