The Oxford Lafayette Chamber of Commerce held a record number of ribbon cuttings as many businesses opened, relocated or had major renovations. We also said goodbye to some  long-standing businesses that we will miss.  We look back at our top business stories, based on page views to review our most read stories. 

Abner’s Famous Chicken closed its original four corners location after 30 years in business. The building at the corner of University and South Lamar is currently for sale. For those who miss the unique taste of their fresh breaded chicken tenders, there are two franchise locations in the Memphis area. 

Lammon’s Fine Jewelry closed after seven decades in business as the owners Allan and Nancy King decided it was time to retire and spend more time with their grandchildren.  Arnett’s Jewelry opened in the same location in November on North Lamar.

Oxford welcomed its first microbrewery, Circle and Square Brewing, in September. The brewery is located near the pedestrian bridge that crosses University Ave. The brewery makes beer on the premises and also offers specialty coffee drinks, sandwiches and light bites. 

A new butcher shop, Oxford Meat Company opened its doors in March. Owned by Josh Christian, the shop specializes in meat, seafood and offers daily plate lunches. It is located on West Oxford Loop. 

Campbell Clinic expanded into Oxford with a new location on South Lamar. The orthopedic clinic is open for walk-ins as well as appointments. 

Oxford Surgery Center broke ground on a 4,620-square-foot expansion in September and plans to be open next year. The total facility, which will be 19,280 square feet when completed, was founded in 2001 as a joint venture between Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi and a team of local physicians.

Dermatology Associates of Oxford relocated from Oxford Commons into a newly built two story office in September on Hwy 30. 

Rayner Eye Clinic relocated to a newly built eye clinic and surgery center on South Lamar in June. 

The Chancellor’s House at the corner of University and South Lamar underwent an extensive renovation this summer and reopened as The Chancellor’s House this fall. The boutique hotel features The Kingswood restaurant with executive chef Joel Miller and a hidden speakeasy, The Nightbird. 

The Square welcomed a new bar and restaurant specializing in gourmet hot dogs. Quacks opened in April during Double Decker next to Ajax. 

Not an opening in 2023, but a top story was the announcement of the second location for Chick-fil-a being reviewed by the planning commission. It was one of our top-read business stories. The new location will be on Sisk Avenue, next to the second Chipotle Mexican Grill now under construction. Both restaurants will be opening sometime in 2024.