Ayesha Curry closes Oakland store citing safety concerns sparking debate on crime rates

Ayesha Curry announced the closure of her Sweet July store in Oakland, citing "safety" concerns for customers and staff. This decision has sparked debate about crime in the area, with some residents noting a significant drop in crime rates over the past year. Critics argue that the store's struggles may stem from factors other than crime, such as low customer traffic. Some local business owners express frustration, stating that the narrative of Oakland as unsafe is misleading and does not reflect recent improvements in the community. Curry's store, which opened in 2021, aimed to be a community hub. The closure has raised questions about the challenges faced by celebrity brands and the impact of negative media portrayals on local businesses.