Local Stores in Manhattan Beach have begun closing as 2025 comes to an end. This marks a wave of change for the city’s tightly knit community of local retail and family run businesses, leaving locals questioning what’s to come for the city in 2026.
Among the recent closures is Free People, which transitioned to Free People Movement, still run by Free People but a totally new and different type of product. Free People has been expanding on its activewear line. The new athletic-wear concept contributes to the feeling of an end to the boutique culture Manhattan Beach has developed.
“I think it’s good that it’s free people movement now, because I liked having the normal free people so close to my house, and now with free people movement there might be more options and I can continue shopping there,” said junior Naomi Dimalanta.
Another loss to the community is Gelato Angels, a family run ice cream shop that closed roughly one month ago. The shop is not a major chain, but does have a few locations still up and running. As one of the only places downtown that sells gelato, it’s hard for many to see it go, as well as this, many students from around the area have been employed here, especially Costa students.
“I feel like the downtown Manhattan Beach community is worse off from it because it was one of a few small businesses left that everyone appreciated and went to,” said former Gelato and Angels employee, junior Emma Rawitz. “Everyone was aware of and now that it’s gone just like pitfire and other stores, downtown feels less like the downtown we grew up with and more just like every other place.”
Un Caffè Almatura had a quick and unexpected closing, shutting down in late November. This cozy breakfast and lunch spot was a locally owned business and was the only one out there. The closing of this iconic food spot takes away from the cozy and comfortable atmosphere of Manhattan Beach.
“Im really sad that this place closed. I went there with my friends a lot, it was just a nice place to eat breakfast,” said junior Dane Stever.
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