New York City locals boycott incoming Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby is set to open its first store in New York City, immediately facing calls for boycotts from local residents. The arts and crafts retailer's arrival in Manhattan's TriBeCa neighborhood has sparked controversy due to the owners' conservative Christian beliefs. This has led to concerns about the company's stance on social issues. The new store, taking over a large former retail space, is scheduled to open this spring. Locals, particularly those in the liberal TriBeCa area, are expressing opposition. They cite Hobby Lobby's past associations with organizations that oppose certain rights and its owners' religious views as reasons for their disapproval. Hobby Lobby, with over 1,000 stores nationwide, has seen revenue growth while competitors struggle. The company's expansion into NYC comes amid a backdrop of broader shifts in the arts and crafts retail market.