'My heart is breaking': Downtown Burlington business permanently closing and customers are expressing their disappointment

By Louie Rosella

July 9th, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

A well-liked small business in Burlington is closing up shop.

The Gazette can confirm that Agora Marketplace, located on John Street between Pine Street and Lakeshore Road, is shuttering its doors.

The jewelry boutique store opened in 2020, with collections that include artisan glass, bracelets, earrings, crystals, jewelry, necklaces and rings.

Owner Ali Ucar told The Gazette it was a difficult decision to close, adding he loved his customers but conceded the long hours were taking a toll on him and his family.

“It’s mixed feelings. I enjoy the people and the atmosphere, but it is a lot of work” he said. There are some loyal customers, and they are not happy (that Agora is closing).”

Ucar said the clientele has been “the heart and soul” of Agora Marketplace.

“We will cherish the memories we’ve created together forever,” he said.

Agora customers expressed their sadness in several online social media posts.

“My heart is breaking,” Laura Loma (@lauravloma) wrote on Instagram. “This was the best place to get incredibly gorgeous jewelry. We will miss you immensely, but we wish you the best in your new chapter.”

Tea McKone (@sucretea) added she too, is sad about the closing and described Agora Marketplace as her “favourite store” in Burlington.

Brian Dean, executive director of the BDBA

Brian Dean, executive director of the Burlington Downtown Business Association, declined comment on the closure, when asked about the impact of Agora Marketplace on the downtown core.

The Agora, which means “gathering place” or “assembly” in Ancient Greek, was the centre of the athletic, artistic, spiritual and political life in the city, according to Agora Marketplace’s website.

Ucar said the store will close its doors sometime between September and December.

In the meantime, there are signs up at the store announcing the closing, as well as a “store closing sale” in which “everything must go.”

Louie Rosella is a professor at Humber Polytechnic and a former journalist in the GTA.