Whilst empty retail units continue to be talked about across the north of Cumbria, plenty of new and exciting businesses have just opened that merit shouting about.
Here's a list of some we've covered in recent weeks.
Sweet Retreat opens on English Street
A new sweet shop opened in Carlisle last weekend and it's hoping to become a 'sweet retreat' for the residents in the city.
The business is the brainchild of David Finnerty, who has decided to 'take the plunge' in opening his own business after noticing a gap in the market caused by Wilko's closing in the city last year.
The Bloem blossoms in Carlyle's Court
Last week, Carlisle welcomed the vibrant addition of a new florist and homeware boutique on the city's high street.
After living in Holland for a year, Katie Byers decided to come back home to Cumbria and set up shop in Carlisle - bringing some Dutch influence alongside her.
Rewind bar opens in Workington
Workington has welcomed the arrival of the town's first gay bar.
Rewind bar, which was formerly Soul Suite opened on April 26. Manager Rhys Cavanagh, 22, from Workington who works for the building owners Lloyd Burnie in his bar The Junction on Jane Street had the idea to re-open Rewind after seeing a gap in the market for something different in the area.
Wigton welcomes new chip on the block
CJ's Chip Shop, on 17 High Street, is being run by Jason Thomason and his dad Craig Thomason - who also run the town's minibus and taxi firm, Thomason Travel.
The chippy formerly opened on March 27, bringing plenty of locals eager for a taste through its doors.
American smoked food van opens in West Cumbria
Dan Winthrop, from Maryport, opened the hatch of AJ's Smokehouse, on Workington's Adams Road, on Thursday (May, 2).
The stationary trailer, with its in-house smokers, will be offering everything in the way of BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, burgers, and Philly cheese steaks as well as an extensive vegan menu.
New takeaway, Ali Tandoori, opens on Botchergate
Ali Tandoori, on Botchergate, officially opened on Wednesday with a mayoral opening.
The owner Dilwar Ali will be serving up Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine.
The Howard Arms in Carlisle set for a return
Not quite new but a familiar favourite is set to return to Carlisle.
Whilst a date has yet to be announced for the reopening of The Howards Arms pub on Lowther Street, it's certainly got people excited.
Wetheral ice cream parlour opens for business
A new ice cream parlour opened at a popular village shop and cafe.
The Melting Pot is located behind The Wetheral Village Shop and The Posting Pot cafe and will hold its grand opening on Sunday, March 31.
Paul Blythe is the owner of The Posting Pot and has spearheaded the creation of the new ice cream parlour since receiving planning permission for it in February 2023, with it being originally hoped that it could have been opened last September.
Tattooist returns to Wigton with Northstar Tattoo Studio
David Yarrow, who spent the last seven years honing his craft in Carlisle, is well-known for his unique 'dot-style' technique that has garnered clients from all across the world.
He spent the three months leading up to the launch personally refurbishing his new unit on Half Moon Lane, the Northstar Tattoo Studio.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here