Oakland’s Black-owned wine shop reopens this Wednesday

CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar, a Black-owned establishment in downtown Oakland, is set to reopen on September 18 after a temporary closure due to a significant drop in business. Owner Alicia Kidd attributed the decline to safety concerns among customers, which have affected foot traffic in the area. Despite the challenges, Kidd remains committed to her vision of showcasing products from under-represented producers, particularly women of color. Kidd opened CoCo Noir in December 2022, but by 2024, her business faced unsustainable financial pressures, with daily earnings sometimes as low as $300 while employing three staff members. The perception of Oakland as an unsafe city has contributed to the struggles faced by many local businesses, including Kidd's. In response to these challenges, Kidd is launching an online fundraiser to garner support from the community. She expressed her determination to continue operating her business, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in revitalizing the local economy. Kidd's optimism about the city's future reflects a broader hope among downtown business owners for increased patronage. The reopening of CoCo Noir is not just a personal milestone for Kidd but also a potential turning point for the downtown area, which has seen a steep decline in visitors. As she prepares to welcome customers back, Kidd is focused on creating a positive atmosphere and encouraging community engagement to ensure the sustainability of her wine shop and bar.