Local Businesses Remain Wary After Challenging Year

As local businesses entered the last quarter in 2020, there was a sense of trepidation about what to expect over the holiday season. This time of year is traditionally the strongest time of the year for many retailers and restaurants in Steamboat Springs. Around 13% of annual city sales tax is collected in December alone. “The holiday season was strong for retailers and locals really went out of their way to shop local this year,” said Lisa Popovich, Executive Director, Main Street Steamboat. “However, we do not have enough critical mass to sustain all of our businesses and we need visitors.”

Steamboat Springs Moves to Level Orange

On December 18, the State of Colorado moved to level orange, which allowed restaurants to offer indoor dining at 25% capacity. “2020 dealt a tremendous amount of challenges and December was no exception, however changes to capacity restrictions in late December helped,” said Kara Stoller, CEO, Steamboat Springs Chamber of Commerce. Sales tax reports will be available by the City early next month, which will give a clear indication of consumer spending.

“We did lose a couple of businesses, but most were planning on closing before the pandemic hit,” said Popovich . Prospective business owners have a range of options to consider as we enter the new year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening a new business in the midst of a pandemic did not daunt several local entrepreneurs. “I have always wanted to open a gallery, and because of COVID, the perfect commercial space that aligned with my vision became available on Lincoln Avenue,” said Dustin Trider, owner of The Standard Gallery and Bar.

Luck played a part for Rochelle Clark when a retail space opened up the east end of Lincoln Avenue.  The mother of three opened Steamboat Fun and Games, in time for the holiday season. “It’s important to have a place that caters to families and kids,” she said. Clark plans to offer video game rental in her mix of offerings, which she hopes will appeal to locals and visitors.

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