Near the old town, residences and commercial brands adjoin each other. The Riquier district shines by its geographical location. Close to all amenities, the port, this shaded area
by carob trees allows many stores to set up on its territory. Thus, the Fly brand, a furniture and decoration store, settled here more than two years ago. It is also the case for Esprit du Monde, a small-scale furniture store. “We have been open for 7 years,” explains Catherine, a store employee. This woman with blonde bob hair, in her forties, points out that being a store manager near a train station or a large supermarket is conducive to business. “It brings people in. Since Fly moved into the area, a new clientele has added to the regulars. A certain dynamic has been created around this sector.”
Catherine has worked in Riquier since 2001. “It’s a popular neighborhood, pretty well-served. A train station, several bus lines, enough to make passersby happy. Many people pass through Riquier. It’s a crossroads leading to the Port, to the shopping center, etc. It’s a quiet place.”
A Nice District
Located east of the old town, the Riquier district is imbued with an atypical Niçois culture. Its architecture, representative of the past, particularly at the port, remains one of the symbols of the Nissart culture.
The station pharmacy, established in the heart of Riquier for nearly 80 years, has seen its surroundings evolve. “It used to be a typically Niçois neighborhood. Today, it is less and less so,” explains Sophie, a pharmacist. “The construction of buildings keeps increasing. But Riquier remains a good district, quite tranquil. There isn’t too much insecurity.”
“One of the disadvantages of this place is the lack of parking. There aren’t enough parking spaces.” Sophie is a bit concerned for her clientele, especially for those from the parapharmacy. “Since the opening of the Para shop, 3 years ago, our turnover has dropped. As for the pharmacy, we trust the regulars. Moreover, a recent clientele has joined them. Our business has been more prosperous since people from the hinterland and from all over France have come to settle in the surroundings. And, it adds a bit of cheerfulness to the area!”
