Entrepreneurs have been taking the plunge and making their dreams become reality despite the cost of living crisis.
And the risk seems to have paid off for the many who amassed a strong following both off and online before the close of the year, with people taking to social media to shower them with praise and support.
1. Arcade Club
The Arcade Club opened its doors in the former Sam Thai casino in Bloomfield Road in June, bringing back retro classics while also offering modern gaming all under one roof. Photo: Daniel Martino
2. Cask micropub
Paul Gabbitas and Paul Fowler opened Cask micropub on Red Bank Road in Bispham in November. It's the sister premises to Cask in Layton. Photo: Daniel Martino
3. The Vault Bar & Lounge
The Vault, a bar based in the premises of the former Barclays Bank in Cleveleys, opened its doors in April. Reader Joanne Benson said it's "just what Cleveleys needed". Photo: Daniel Martino