NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas — Recent rains have dampened foot traffic and impacted the bottom lines of businesses in New Braunfels, a popular summer destination.
However, local business owners remain optimistic as river access reopens and the summer season progresses.
Debbie De La Cruz, owner of The Cake Bar, shared that despite the challenges, her business has exceeded expectations since opening a few months ago. “So it affected us in the sense that we kind of overprepared, inventory-wise, staffing-wise,” she said. De La Cruz added, “Instead of having to close down, it ended up being a really good weekend for us.”
In contrast, some long-standing businesses in the area have experienced a slower season. A representative from New Braunfels Brewery noted, “I kind of feel like this summer hasn’t been as busy yet…I feel that we’re running a little late.” Meanwhile, Sweet Bites reported that “maybe 30-35% are just the tourists coming by here.”
Despite these challenges, business owners remain confident due to the area’s growing population and an increase in downtown events. A spokesperson from New Braunfels Brewery expressed optimism, saying, “People still walk past us. People still see what we’re doing. And it’s, it’s just it’s constantly growing. It’s getting bigger always.”
With river access now reopened, businesses are hopeful for increased foot traffic throughout the remainder of the summer.
