As February winds down, tourist season along the Grand Strand is peaking just around the corner. But with the current economic climate, many are concerned about the forecast - the number of tourists that will vacation here.
According to the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, business owners say a decrease in tourism is likely to impact their business more than anything else. Yet, business owners NewsChannel 15 spoke with today remain optimistic.
As many along the Grand Strand wonder if tourist dollars will show up this year to give business a needed boost, some business owners like their chances.
"We are centrally located on the east coast and I think people would rather drive here and save money as opposed to go to other more expensive places," said Bill Griste, owner of Duffy Street Seafood Shack in North Myrtle Beach.
Chris Paino, owner of Main Street Studios, a photography and video shop in North Myrtle Beach, agreed.
"We're very optimistic because people need an escape and they need something that's affordable and fun, something to take them away from the economic turmoil, if you will, and that's what we're going to provide," said Paino.
But optimism can be tough to come by, especially considering unemployment is up, and bottom lines are down. The state accommodations tax, which generates funding for local tourism, is projected to be down for the first time since it was put into place.
Also, state tourism spending has been cut by almost 40% for the upcoming fiscal year - prompting the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce to survey their members, a brief questionnaire covering concerns from how much business owners rely on tourism, to advertising spending.
"We rely heavily on tourists, as you can see we're right here near all the condos and all the resorts," said Griste, whose restaurant is located at the intersection of Main Street and Ocean Boulevard.
Both Paino and Grist say they have no intention of slowing down their advertising.
"I have not cut back on that at all, in a down economy I don't feel like that's the proper thing to do," added Griste.
"When the economy improves, those are the people that are going to be reaping the rewards of the down economy," predicted Paino.
North Myrtle Beach Chamber President, Marc Jordan says he hopes their survey can help chamber evaluate the needs of the business community and how they can all work together to address concerns.
