American Express PGA Tournament brings boost to local businesses
The American Express PGA Tournament is having a positive impact on the Coachella Valley, and on local businesses specifically. It doesn't just bring professional golfers to the desert, but it also drives small boost in the economy.
Tourists from all over the globe travel to the city of La Quinta to see their favorite athletes, and world-renowned golf courses. However, they also stick around to spend their time and money at small businesses.
“We're getting a few more people than usual. So it's always nice on the weekends," said Janet Zepeda, a barista at 'Yes Please Cafe and Dessert Bar'. "“We have people coming in with their polos with their gloves on. So it's nice to see, you know, we love people coming in to check out our cafe.”
Another shop, Coco Rose has certainly seen an influx of new customers.
"I definitely noticed an increase in sales and in traffic for our store," said Coordinator, Lindsay Brandt. “It's been really fun seeing more and more people come in. A lot of them are excited to go to the concert. A few customers actually chose outfits early this morning that they're going to wear this evening.”
But not every business is seeing a boost in sales. One boutique, who didn't want to be named, admitted the store was extremely slow, slower than usual. The owner attributed the empty store to the tournament, saying the niche shop really caters to locals, who tend to stay home when big events come to town.
"No one is coming into the store because they are out at the big event, they don't all have time to shop because this store you need to take your time to find what you want," the owner said.
Although not every store benefits from the tournament, local bars and restaurants are making sure they have the event on their TV's. So even if you couldn't get to the actual green, you can keep up with the players and the scores away from the course.
