Retailers Hope RNC Boosts Business

Elizabeth Sullivan sees the as a rock thrown into a pond.

She said the ripple effect the splash makes on the surface of the water is the same effect the RNC will make on businesses in Tampa and the surrounding areas, including Temple Terrace.

“I think we’re going to be on the outer bounds of the ripple,” said Sullivan, who sells her gifts at . “I think Temple Terrace is a little far out just to go to, to get a direct impact.”

At , owners Rose Waruinge and Patrick Gachau said they’re optimistic the RNC will have a positive effect on their business.

“We are hoping,” Waruinge said. “We’ll serve anybody—even the protesters.”

And they’re enticing customers by offering a free cup of coffee to any delegate Aug. 27-30.

The Tampa Bay Business Journal cites a report from Jones Lang LaSalle that states the RNC will have a total economic impact of $153.56 million in the Tampa Bay area.

Sullivan said she could anticipate a friend or family member of a delegate coming into Anastacia’s and buying a gift for their delegate, but she doesn’t see that happening often during the RNC. Still, she said, she’s hopeful: “I think any business owner is going to be grateful for an uptick (in sales)—small or large.”

Do you think Temple Terrace will see a boost in business during the RNC, or do you think the city is too far out to experience any real impact? Tell us in the comments.