HENDERSON, Nev. — Small businesses across the country are navigating a treacherous economic landscape, grappling with rising costs and a significant downturn in consumer spending. This challenging environment is not just a national trend but is hitting home for local entrepreneurs who rely on their communities for support and patronage.
A report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce sheds light on the struggles small businesses are facing nationwide. As economic pressures mount, many owners are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain strong sales and customer loyalty.
Pat Dalton Amico, owner of Viva Tequila, has witnessed firsthand the impact of these economic challenges. “With times the way they are and the economy the way it is, we’re not failing. We’re struggling,” he explained. His candid observation reflects a broader sentiment among small business owners who are feeling the pinch more keenly than ever.
For Amico, the last six to seven months have been particularly tough. “Numbers are down,” he stated, pointing to various economic pressures and rising costs as factors that have constrained consumer spending. “Where the prices are and the economy’s going, food and everything else, they have less dollars to spend,” he elaborated, highlighting the cyclical nature of economic strain.
The hardships are not isolated to Viva Tequila alone. Other local small businesses are also experiencing significant downturns. Earlier this summer, Pinches Tacos made the difficult decision to close its downtown location, attributing the closure to similar economic pressures. Meanwhile, 3D Retro, a collectible store, has reported a notable decline in foot traffic, further underscoring the struggles many are facing.
“I’ve been working for two years; compared to last year, the sales are down,” remarked an employee from 3D Retro located in Chinatown. This stark reality of declining sales and decreasing customer interest resonates with many employees and owners who are adapting to the less favorable business climate.
Determined to maintain his establishment’s vitality, Amico is adopting innovative strategies to draw customers back inside. He has introduced live entertainment on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays, as well as themed events like line dancing on Sundays and specials such as Taco Tuesday, Whiskey Wednesday, and Tequila Thursday. These creative approaches aim to create a sense of community while driving traffic to his restaurant.
Beyond just the bottom line, Amico emphasizes the human side of his business. “So for me, I look at them just like I look at my family. They have children, they have families. They have to have their paycheck,” he noted, highlighting the importance of supporting his employees during these tough times. His commitment to his staff reflects a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the community and local businesses.
Amico’s final call to action resonates deeply: “Support our local businesses that aren’t right there in the middle. It’s nice if we go, and they’re on all ends of town. And I’d ask the Las Vegas community to come out and support us all. We’re part of the community.” His words serve as a reminder of the vital role small businesses play in the local economy and the importance of community solidarity in overcoming adversity.
Despite the challenges, Amico remains cautiously optimistic. He believes that with community support, small businesses like his can continue to thrive in the Las Vegas Valley. The resilience of small business owners is a testament to their unwavering spirit, even in the face of uncertain economic times.