Charlotte’s first Black-owned day spa has permanently closed its doors
It’s been nearly 4 months since Gov. Roy Cooper announced a statewide stay-at-home order that not only affected residents but businesses in North Carolina. While phased reopenings have begun, many Charlotte businesses have been unable to regroup and are permanently closing.
Oasis Day Spa in the Elizabeth neighborhood is the latest business to join that growing list.
The spa, which has been in business for 23 years, posted a message on its website announcing the closure Monday. While the COVID-19 closure was a factor, it also said the spa’s founder, Roberta Rice Johnson, had recently passed away due to a health crisis.
“We are sad to inform you of the passing of the Founder and CEO of Oasis Day Spa INC, Roberta Rice Johnson, a pioneer in the Beauty Industry for over 40 years,” the website said.
According to the statement, Oasis Day Spa and Salon was Charlotte’s first Black-owned day spa, and Johnson managed the business since it opened more than two decades ago at 2036 E. 7th St.
The statement goes on to attribute government orders related to COVID-19 to the spa’s inability to recover and reopen.
“The forced closing of the spa in March and the other unforeseen health issues proved to be the final challenge that was too insurmountable to overcome. We will always be thankful and grateful to our customers for their support over the past 23 years. We thank you in advance and hope for your understanding and grace.”
The statement ended with prayers that employees and customers of the business remain safe, as well as a prayer for the end of COVID-19.
Ely Concrete Construction has moved into Oasis’ former location. Project executive Al Laster told CharlotteFive the lease was signed over to Ely on June 1.
