Block Inc. Press Release: Renewing Commitment to Local Business in San Francisco
In a significant move to bolster local businesses and enhance community engagement, Square, a subsidiary of Block Inc., has announced the renewal of its Corner Store lease at 1100 Valencia Street in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District. This renewal marks the beginning of a new chapter for Square, which aims to further invest in local entrepreneurship and community connection.
1. Revitalizing the Corner Store
Since its inception in May 2025, the Corner Store has functioned as a crucial community hub, facilitating connections between local businesses and residents. Square’s latest initiative includes an expanded BIGFACE Coffee residency, which promises to increase foot traffic, boost sales, and foster community ties. The store has already made a measurable impact, processing over 20,000 transactions daily in the Mission District, with a notable 10% year-over-year growth in transactions during the latter half of 2025.
Lindsey Irvine, Head of Marketing at Square, emphasized the company's commitment to local entrepreneurship: “Local businesses are among the most powerful community connectors in every neighborhood. By providing the right tools and creating a space where people can connect and grow their businesses, we're deepening our roots here and building the kind of neighborhood we all want to see.”
2. BIGFACE Coffee Residency Launch
The Corner Store will officially reopen its doors with a lively block party on January 29, featuring entertainment from the Golden State Warriors' DJ D Sharp, a local marching band, sports-themed games, and food trucks. The BIGFACE Coffee residency, led by NBA All-Star and Square seller Jimmy Butler, will run daily, from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays and from 8 am to 4 pm on weekends.
Building on the success of last year's pop-up, which saw an 11% increase in sales during the two-week activation, the renewed residency will extend through April 12, 2026. This dedicated space will serve as a platform for community engagement, showcasing personalized coffee drinks, highlighting local San Francisco small businesses, and offering valuable resources and support to local entrepreneurs.
3. Supporting Local Businesses During Key Events
Square is also rolling out several initiatives aimed at maximizing visibility and demand for local businesses during significant local events. Highlights of these initiatives include:
- Hometown Love Program: Providing $1,000 in processing credits to 100 eligible businesses to help them maximize sales during peak demand periods.
- Off Season Capsule Collection: An exclusive limited-run pop-up of Kristin Juszczyk’s brand at the Corner Store from February 5-7.
- Square Stops Here Bus Tour: A partnership with Visa to showcase local sellers and the Corner Store as key stops on a hop-on hop-off tour from February 5-7.
- Complex Family Style Food Fest: Square will power a food festival on February 7, offering free admission and a unique dining experience from Akiko’s Sushi Bar.
4. Future Programming and Community Focus
Following the BIGFACE residency, Square has plans to announce additional programming that will spotlight other local businesses throughout 2026. This continuous commitment to community engagement and support highlights Square’s role in fostering local economic growth.
Square’s innovative approach not only empowers local sellers but also reaffirms the company’s dedication to enriching neighborhoods through meaningful connections.
About Square
Founded in 2009, Square has revolutionized the financial landscape for small businesses with its first mobile card reader. Today, it continues to empower millions of sellers, offering a comprehensive business platform that integrates payment processing with essential tools for growth.
About BIGFACE
BIGFACE, founded by NBA star Jimmy Butler, is more than just a coffee brand; it embodies a cultural movement that emphasizes quality specialty coffee while creating community connections. Through innovative offerings, BIGFACE aims to enhance the coffee experience for both aficionados and casual consumers alike.
For more information about Square and its initiatives, visit squareup.com. For insights into BIGFACE, explore www.bigfacebrand.com.