Retail and Shopping
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Batavia’s first cannabis shop celebrates ribbon-cutting
May 13, 2026 8:56 am - There are high expectations for the first cannabis dispensary to open in Batavia.
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10 tips for being a smarter farmers market shopper
May 13, 2026 5:50 am - Peak farmers market season is just around the corner. Are you ready for the annual fresh produce bonanza? Whether it’s your first trip or your hundredth, a refresher on navigating a farmers market is in order to help you make the most of your visit — and get the most bang for your buck.
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As Illinoisans lose federal food assistance, independent grocers face debt, store closure
May 12, 2026 2:07 pm - As thousands of Illinois households lose their federal food assistance this month, business owners also are preparing for potential loss. When households lose their benefits, they spend less at the grocery store, and the already-thin profit margins of independent grocers become even slimmer. Business owners face debt and potential store closures that could have far-reaching effects for small communities in rural Illinois.
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Fresh finds: A guide to farmers markets in the suburbsMay 11, 2026 11:39 am - Farmers market season is here, bringing fresh produce, handmade goods and more back to local downtowns and parks.
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BBB scam alert: Con artists target Mother’s Day shoppersMay 07, 2026 3:45 pm - The Better Business Bureau is urging consumers to be vigilant against scams. Scammers see this holiday as an especially lucrative opportunity. Whether you’re buying flowers, jewelry, or gift cards, the BBB urges you to shop wisely.
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Tapping into Long Grove’s downtown growth, 2 new stores open in historic districtMay 07, 2026 3:38 pm - Two storefronts recently opened in downtown Long Grove, fueling optimism about the future of the village’s historic downtown. Artistic Creations of Long Grove at 405 Robert Parker Coffin Road, a shop showcasing handmade and artisan goods, and The Olive Tap at 302 Old McHenry Road, an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting emporium, held a dual grand opening Sunday.
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Batavia Boardwalk Shops return for opening weekend on May 8May 06, 2026 11:26 am - On Friday, May 8, the seventh season of the Batavia Boardwalk Shops officially begins. Every year, 10 small businesses come together to create one vibrant, walkable destination in the heart of downtown Batavia.
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‘It’s iconic’: Des Plaines officials celebrate plan to repurpose former YMCA facilityMay 05, 2026 1:53 pm - A multimillion-dollar plan to renovate an old YMCA building in Des Plaines that’s become an eyesore since its closure six years ago is being celebrated by city officials and their soon-to-be partners in the project. The city council on Monday unanimously voted to purchase the former Lattof YMCA, 300 E. Northwest Highway, from the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago for $1.85 million.
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Animal rights group sues Batavia-based ALDI, claims it misled consumers on cage-free eggs pledge
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Sprouts grocery store development gets nod from Wheaton boardMay 04, 2026 6:49 pm - Sprouts Farmers Market has at least two planned grocery stores in suburban Chicago moving closer to reality.