Business

Cathy Dobson Gerry Surette and Suzanne Holbrook predict their new burger and fries shop will start a trend in the Bayside Centre food court. “The future plans for the mall convinced us to do it,” said Surette.

Cathy Dobson Thirty-four-year-old Tyler Yates exudes confidence. From behind a massive desk on the top floor of First Sarnia Place, with a panoramic office view of the St. Clair River, he offers a broad smile and a firm handshake.

Cathy Dobson The Journal Nearly everything Sierra Butler has pursued so far led her to the launch of her own small business in May.

Cathy Dobson If you’ve found a recipe for success in the restaurant business, don’t mess with it, says George Stoukas, whose family recently opened yet another family diner. “Why reinvent the wheel?” he asks.

Cathy Dobson Selina Ip’s car is practically on autopilot these days, running between her East Street café and her new Thai restaurant on Murphy Road. She’s back and forth six days a week, ensuring all is well at each location.

Cathy Dobson There’s been an outpouring from former customers since Vicky and John Brodimas closed the historic Bridge Tavern two weeks ago.

Cathy Dobson They just don’t make furniture like they used to, says a local woman adept at refinishing everything from 1980s oak tables to antique mirrors. “Older furniture is more solid. There’s no chipboard and the construction is better.

Cathy Dobson A couple of years ago, Kathy Dhillon was hired to prepare a chocolate table for a gala hosted by Sarnia’s St. Joseph’s Hospice. The reaction to her elaborate cupcakes and sweet goodies ensured she’s never been short of business since.

Cathy Dobson The Hayhow family say their new Sarnia store is one of the largest British retail outlets in Ontario, offering everything from clothing to candy and gifts to games.

Cathy Dobson Adnan Joudeh wants to introduce Sarnians to his Mediterranean cooking that he says is a healthy and tasty alternative to western fare.