By: Claire Bacarella (via Fox 47 News)
With Christmas just days away, Downtown Lansing small businesses are seeing a surge in foot traffic as neighbors rush to find the perfect last-minute gifts. I stopped by Summit Comics and Gifts on Sunday to see how this final shopping stretch is impacting local retailers and the neighbors scrambling to check items off their holiday lists.
“Procrastinated my holiday shopping until four days before Christmas so today I really have to get every family member something,” Lansing neighbor Sydney Meredith said.
Meredith got a late start to her holiday shopping, beginning at Summit on Sunday. The store’s interim manager Marcus Embry says the difference in business during this final weekend is dramatic.
“I’d say at least three- to four times as much foot traffic. Maybe more than that in sales because our regulars are picking up more than they usually do, and the people who are stopping in for the first time are like, ‘Hey, this would make a great gift,’” Embry said.
Embry says this final weekend before Christmas can make a big difference for a small business.
Among the shoppers was Danielle Hastings, who closed up at her business across the street and made her way to Summit to do some holiday shopping.
“Being a business owner you start understanding how important it is supporting small, how much of an impact that makes in your community. And just always love being able to help other small businesses,” Hastings said.
Photo Credit: Claire Bacarella/Fox 47 News
