ST. PETERSBURG, Fla (WFLA) — In the midst of construction and minimal foot traffic, businesses are closing, and others are coming soon. Some say it’s become a trend in St. Petersburg.
“Yeah, well, cycle closed. It was one of the first breweries in St. Pete and it was going into a couple of months ago, and now it’s changed ownership,” said resident Barry Ezell, who tries to support local businesses once a week.
The organization ‘Keep St. Petersburg Local’ sent 8 On Your Side a statement saying: “Although change is inevitable, the changes in recent years in the City of St. Petersburg due to increased development, and a different demographic since the pandemic, has, sadly, led to increased closures of local businesses. There will be more closures this year. If you don’t want your favorite local business to meet the same fate, it needs your support, right now, more than ever.”
Sara Stonecipher’s store, Misred Outfitters, has been in downtown for 15 years. She said she has never seen small business owners work so hard, and the morale be so low.
“We’re showing up every single day and we’re putting every penny we have and we’re sacrificing everything we have. No body is making any money. Everybody has a second job. And you’re watching your friends go out of business,” said Stonecipher.
The President and CEO of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce Chris Steinocher said the businesses that are closing had leases, resources, and the economy of more than five years ago.
“We don’t feel like we’re going in a spiral downward. We just feel like we’re like having to retool for a new economy,” said Steinocher. “Hey, Saint Pete is still thriving, but our hospitality is trying to recalibrate itself for an economy that’s coming back.”
Steinocher said it’s not tourism season, and some people are still recovering from the hurricanes.
Stonecipher said she’s never the businesses in the area feel so isolated, but she has to hold on to hope.
“St Pete also has one of the highest commercial rents in the state of Florida. And so, you know, the rising prices have affected everyone from their homes to small businesses,” said Stonecipher. “Just support all of your friends and neighbors that are just really trying so so hard to keep St. Pete special.”
She said there has to be a balance of support from locals and tourists. The Chamber of Commerce said they have programs like the entrepreneur academy and opportunities for businesses to partner with the city, and try to help businesses where they can.
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