June 23 was the last day for the Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea location in the one-time Borders building at 604 E. Liberty. According to manager Trena Smith, franchisee Sheila Li initially sought a reduced rent when negotiating a renewal of her ten-year lease. Hughes Properties ultimately inked another as-yet-unannounced tenant.
Smith says that Li will pursue another site for her Sweetwaters franchise, perhaps one with a drive-thru. The Ann Arbor–based company offered employees the chance to interview at other locations, but after nine years there, Smith is embarking on a new career as a massage therapist.
Got a retail or restaurant change? Email marketplace@aaobserver.com
