The Latest Shopping Trend: Retail Hybrids

There’s a bit of a mini trend emerging in the Rhode Island retail scene as of late: different businesses merging together under one roof to create a sort of hybrid operation. It’s a great idea. Not only do business owners cut down on costs, but they’re also able offer customers more convenient one-stop shopping. I first got wind of this concept when we wrote about how the owners of Paper Moss, Studio 539 and ReFind teamed up in a Wickenden Street storefront in our May 2009 issue.

And recently a couple of East Bay businesses have followed suit. In Warren, printed paper goods store Modern Printed Matter has welcomed jeweler Muse into its space. The stores used to coexist two doors down from each other and can now both be found in a bright, beautiful space at 420 Main Street. 

And over in Bristol, New Leaf Hair Studio has a new retail boutique in its front waiting area. Started by New Leaf owner Amy Silva and stylist Courtney Libby, therapy. is an accessories boutique stocking everything from funky hair scarves and ponytail holders to purses and jewelry.