Some beach businesses experiencing summer downturn

Published August 3, 2016

by Amanda Lamb, WRAL, August 2, 2016.

Beach business owners have the summer months to make the bulk of their annual revenue, although some coastal merchants in Wrightsville Beach say they are experiencing a downturn. While some blame House Bill 2, others don't know what to make of it.

Art gallery owner Jazz Undy has started camps and classes to help make up for his shortfall. but the common question around town is, why are some coastal businesses lagging this summer?

"There's the House Bill that we're famous for. Maybe that has brought our numbers down. I'm not really sure," Undy said.

Restaurant Owner Jim Radle said he thought lower gas prices would draw more tourists.

"People have mentioned HB2, the election year, I know it's a big one, but there is no rhyme or reason to it," Radle said. "I don't know if it is the perfect storm, it's a little of everything."

Radle said he and other business owners were expecting a solid summer, but that has not been the case.

Colby Domnick, owner of the new Loops Donuts, said they have had some sweet success.

"We're gaining a little following, pretty excited about that," Domnick said. "We are definitely satisfied with where we are."

Undy said all hope is not lost. The season at Wrightsville Beach does not end with Labor Day.

"We're hoping for a big August, September and October," he said.

Read more at http://www.wral.com/beach-businesses-experiencing-a-summer-downturn/15897914/#0YCtfu2RKZdpRXRp.99