These Businesses Closed Across North Central Florida in July 2026

Five businesses across the 352 closed their doors in July, including independent retailers and local eateries.

By Ashley Brace August 7, 2026 10:09 am

A building sits in the background while in the foreground, a metal fence blocks off the store with a banner hanging off of it, reading "Store Closed." — Metro ServicesMetro Creative ConnectionMultiple North Central Florida businesses shut their doors during July 2026.

MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Several businesses across the 352 area closed their doors in July, ranging from longtime downtown boutiques to restaurants and local shopping destinations. While new businesses continue to open throughout North Central Florida, July marked the end of the road for several familiar names.

Diggers Antique Mall

After more than a decade of serving antique hunters and bargain seekers, Diggers Antique Mall closed its Ocala location on July 31. The antique mall at 1811 N. Pine Ave. was known for its collection of vintage and antique items, as well as an eclectic mix of “odd and unique” finds from multiple vendors. For shoppers who enjoyed digging through booths in search of an unexpected treasure, the store offered the kind of browsing experience that could turn a quick stop into an attention hunt.

The closure was announced in July after more than 10 years in business.

Newk’s Eatery

Newk’s Eatery in Gainesville closed its doors suddenly at the end of July. The restaurant, located at 4041 Plaza Blvd., served sandwiches, salads, soups, pizzas and other casual dining options. The closure was announced on social media, where a posted sign notified guests that the Gainesville location was not to reopen.

Paulie’s at the Oaks on 44

Paulie’s at the Oaks on 44 in Wildwood closed in July. Located at 75 Continental Blvd., the restaurant and lounge served Italian and specialty dishes in a more traditional dining setting, while its lounge offered a more casual atmosphere with pizza and other menu options. The restaurant’s abrupt closure was announced on social media.

Pink Hanger Boutique

After 16 years in downtown Ocala, Pink Hanger Boutique closed its doors on July 31. The women’s clothing and gift boutique, located at 20 SW Broadway St., offered clothing, accessories, jewelry and gifts from a variety of independent designers and brands. The boutique had become a familiar stop for downtown shoppers looking for clothing and gifts that weren’t found at larger retailers.

pOpshelf

Ocala’s only pOpshelf location closed in July, ending the retailer’s presence in Marion County. The store, located at 4901 E. Silver Springs Blvd. in Six Gun Plaza, held a liquidation sale ahead of its closure, with merchandise marked down by 50 percent or more.

pOpshelf, a Dollar General-owned retail concept, offered a rotating selection of home decor, seasonal merchandise, beauty products, party supplies, crafts, toys and other household items.

The Ocala location officially closed July 14, following weeks of clearance sales. The closure also marked another change for Six Gun Plaza, which saw the departure of a Bealls storefront earlier in the year.