Local Businesses Prepare For Stimulus

Local businesses are well aware that, at least for the next few months, many peoples’ wallets will be a skosh fatter thanks to federal economic stimulus checks.

"Last week, I pulled the managers together and talked about food quality, because we want to make an impression on people while they do have a little extra disposable income," said Ron Wesley, owner of PepperJack Grille in Bristol Virginia’s Linden Square.

"This week, we’re putting out our new spring menu, and we’re picking up the pace of our advertising, knowing this is coming."

The Internal Revenue Service on Monday began sending out economic stimulus payments to millions of Americans.

The stimulus package was approved in February with the expectations that the checks will provide a positive jolt to a sagging national economy.

"We’re excited about it," Wesley said. "It’s also going to give our team members a chance to make a little more in tips. Now do I think the stimulus package is the answer to the country’s economic woes – of course not. But I can tell you, me and my business partner will benefit by it, and I’ll be using money to help pay for a family vacation."

The IRS will issue payments of up to $600 – $1,200 for married couples – plus $300 for eligible children younger than 17, throughout the spring and summer.

Shirley Vota, manager of Better Rest Mattresses, also located in Linden Square, said customers have been coming in for weeks saying they plan to buy a new bed when they get their payments.

"We want them to know we’re here," she said. "We normally charge for delivery. But beginning in May, we’re advertising free delivery with any purchase over $599. I’m optimistic that the stimulus payments will help. Myself – I’m planning to buy a new TV."

Jason Slater, assistant manager for Rex TV & Appliance off Lee Highway, said his store was continuing to advertise at the same pace.

"We’re not going to do anything different, but we do expect people to be coming in," he said. "I’ve had people saying they’re going to try to capitalize on this and buy a TV or an appliance."

As far as the long-term economic ramifications of the stimulus checks, Slater said, "All you can do is remain optimistic."

Meanwhile, Bill Wilmoth, manager of Bristol Tennessee’s Big Lots on Volunteer Parkway, said he knows of no specific corporate plans to draw in more customers during this time. However, he said what he’s been seeing and hearing in the news is not what his customers have been telling him.

"I see on TV where they’re saying people are going to spend this money on bills," Wilmoth said. "That’s not what my customers are telling me. I’m hearing people say they plan to make a pretty big purchase. This is money they wouldn’t have had, so combined with what they’ve saved to go toward things – like a TV, riding lawn mower – they can now make these purchases."

Back on the Virginia side, near Exit 7, John Hortenstine, Golf USA co-owner, was not so optimistic. Hortenstine said he thought most people will use their payments to pay down debt.

"I think it will help some, and I think we’ll pick up some sales from it," he said. "But I just don’t see it freeing up a lot of disposable income," he added while nodding his head side to side.

Nearby, at Tinsletown USA, Shamar Jones of Bristol, Tenn., was heading to her car after a movie. She thinks the stimulus package is a temporary fix, and she plans to deposit her payment into her savings account.

"Sure, I think people will go out and buy some things – things that they don’t need, frivolous things," she said.

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