According to the LSUA Cenla Economic Dashboard for December, consumer spending in the area is predicted to boost total revenue rates by the end of the year, a stark contrast to the 2020 holiday shopping season.
Overall, consumer spending is up nearly 50% since January 2020 in some Central Louisiana parishes, including 48% in Grant Parish, 36% in Rapides Parish and 24% in Natchitoches. Across the state, that average is just over 31%.
“Our small businesses are reporting that they are seeing increased traffic into their storefronts, but also, many are continuing their curbside service, and they’re seeing even an increase in that,” said Deborah Randolph, Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce president. “And, [they] are again optimistic about their overall numbers and how their season will pan out.”
So far this holiday season, total sales in Rapides Parish are running 7% higher, according to sales tax revenue data. Local online sales are exceeding that rate. For Dressed to the Bixby, an Alexandria Boutique, they have seen a 20% increase this holiday shopping season from November 2020 to November 2021. Within that same time frame, overall store sales have increased more than 70%, up 15% just within the last month. Those who are planning to buy a watch to give as a gift this holiday season may also consider looking for a nearby watch service shop that can repair the watch should it break. The holiday season is also a great time for people to visit a spa for a day of pampering like having their nails done with rubber top coat.
“It’s nothing like coming in and having that in-store experience to really get to see the entire store, have team members help you try on clothes and help you pick out the perfect outfit,” explained Sarah Bixby, owner of Dressed to the Bixby. “From this December we saw just a huge change with so many people coming in store and picking up their purchases or shopping directly. You know it gave us hope that we can bounce back from a devasting year like 2020.”
By the end of the year, the boutique projects it will have made $1.2 million in revenue, a significant increase from 2020.
Small businesses and big box stores alike have seen an increase in foot traffic in and out of the storefront.
https://www.kalb.com/2021/12/22/consumer-spending-rise-this-holiday-season-central-louisiana/