Local businesses look to net millennial crowds
Business owners in Palm Springs are looking to attract more visitors, especially those who are young.
People out and about relaxing in downtown, a typical sight during the winter months.
“Yeah, it’s beautiful downtown. It really encapsulates the retro vibe,” Amy Zeller, a visitor from Dallas, said.
For these girls, they enjoy visiting Palm Springs by taking in the atmosphere.
“You can stroll, shop, have a drink, sit out and watch the view. Yeah it’s definitely an experience,” Zeller said.
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An “experience” local business owners are looking to capitalize, especially when tapping into a younger demographic.
“Walking the street here, the beautiful mountains, the great customer service. I think those are the things that really set us apart from other shopping areas,” Joy Meredith, owner of Crystal Fantasy, said.
Business owners held a discussion about the looming prospect of Amazon affecting local retail sales Tuesday. City Councilmember Lisa Middleton felt the idea of selling visitors on experiences could work.
“The fact that they see so many other individuals out on the street makes you feel part of a crowd and part of something happening,” she said.
Middleton said the city has already placed public art in the downtown to help create another attraction.
“I’m actually a graphic designer so I love that there’s art all over the city. No matter where you look, there’s art,” Brianne Mitchell, a visitor from Claremont, said.
Business owners agree saying promoting an inviting ambiance in addition to their products and services is the way to go, as they feel buying something online like on Amazon doesn’t exactly sell face-to-face experiences.
“I think we need to look on the other side of our doors in downtown and up-town and make sure they are the best we can make them,” Meredith said.
“You meet a lot of the shop owners, locals, good tips, so it’s fun to shop in this downtown area,” Zeller said.
