A beloved, long-time vintage corner store in Southport is closing its doors for redevelopment.
As development creeps along Southport's historic downtown, Bullfrog Corner'sclosure -- even if it later returns
-- adds to the reshaping of the city's iconic identity.
Bullfrog Corner owner Cheryl Milacki can remember her family frequently visiting the store before her parents took over ownership more than 25 years ago. The store is such a prominent part of the family that her mother, Marianne Long, is referred to as the "foundation of Bullfrog Corner."
"This was such a huge part of our lives, and my kids lives," said Milacki, noting many customers share her experience.
With areas filled with candy, toys, books and more, families and children who enter the store share an experience.
"It's like an imagination wonderland," Milacki said.
Andrew Laing, owner of Southport Coffee Company, purchased the property at 101 E. Moore St. in July 2022, where the popular gift and candy store currently sits. Shortly after the corner property purchase, Laing proposed adding two stories above the existing store to build four apartment units with porches, with two featuring a water view.
The plan went back and forth several times between Laing and the city, with parking being a main concern. However, the project earned final approval in February 2025.
"It's going to be a huge addition, it's going to build the character... We got some great things planned," Laing said.
The project follows another recently built corner lot and apartment unit and commercial space project on Nash and Howe streets.
Bullfrog Corner announces closure
Bullfrog Corner recently announced on Facebook that it will be moved out by Dec. 31 for redevelopment of the property. The announcement surprised the community, said Milacki, noting she was shocked how many customers responded with disappointment, memories, love and support for the small-town store.
"We feel like we are part of the community and we feel the love so strongly from the people," Milacki said.
The store will remain open as long as possible, said Milacki. She hopes the moving date is extended and that the business will continue its history after the project is complete.
Change becoming 'inevitable' for Southport
The candy store, formerly a pharmacy, is not the first, nor the only redevelopment project in the city's downtown.
In 2020, Southport Market opened at an adjacent corner of Howe and Moore streets. A bank sat on the property before it was redeveloped as a large gift store.
A former downtown law office near Bullfrog Corner opened as the Royal James Rummery in 2024. Ocean Outfitters and Celtic Creamery have also added to the prime area.
Work has also started on a three-story multi-use building that will bring a restaurant with a rooftop bar, retail shops, office space and apartment units to the corner of W. Nash and N. Howe streets, at the former Carr Insurance building.
"Sometimes change is inevitable, especially in a community like Southport that's growing and evolving," Milacki said.
Though change can be hard for some people, Milacki believes change can be a good thing when handled thoughtfully.
Future of Bullfrog Corner
While Milacki's memories of the store's history and impact remain sharp, she says the business's future is not as clear.
Asked if there is any timeframe for the closure, Milacki said she does not know. Milacki has no intention to relocate the store or move merchandise online once the store closes.
"I think that Bullfrog Corner's home being there has also made it so special," Milacki said. "I want it to stay there; I want it to reopen there."
Laing told the StarNews in early 2025 that Bullfrog Corner will remain if the project comes to fruition. As of now, exact project timelines are still being worked out and the store's closing could be later, Laing said. Laing did not say whether the plan includes demolishing the existing property, but said he will share more details in a few months.
The project will be in line with the character of Southport and even "strengthen" it, Laing said.
"It's not going to be some type of modern-looking structure," Laing said. "Honestly, it'll probably even look older than the structure that's there."
DEVELOPMENT GROWING: Keep up with the area’s latest Brunswick County news by signing up for the Brunswick Today newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.
Milacki is hoping to return with a future reopening at the corner lot. However, she said nothing is confirmed and that things can change as details continue to be sorted out for the storefront.
"If it's coming back, it's coming with us," said Milacki, noting she would return with the same vintage, comfortable feeling if given the opportunity.
Customers can stay updated by watching Bullfrog Corner's Facebook page.
Savanna Tenenoff covers Brunswick County for the StarNews. Reach her at stenenoff@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Beloved Southport shop faces uncertain future with redevelopment
