Presidents generate big buzz and an influx of customers when they visit restaurants and other establishments. But does it last
…”It started on Tuesday when the word was out about the visit and continued through today. We understand it’s a novelty buzz right now. We don’t know how to plan for when it wears off. If this continues, then we’ll have to increase our staff.”
Much like having celebrity patrons, a presidential visit — by any president, as many before President Obama have as well — can definitely put a small business on the map. Some don’t see a direct increase in sales, but still enjoy perks like photos with the president, which they can use for marketing on their storefronts and websites, and a more direct line to the White House staff.
Even well-known establishments with already-loyal followings can reap benefits from a presidential pit stop. Ben’s Chili Bowl, a Washington, D.C., landmark made famous by Bill Cosby and other celebrity customers, still saw an uptick in business surrounding a visit by then President-elect Obama.
“We were packed,” co-owner Sonya Ali says. “People started cheering. It was almost like…
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Is President Obama Good for Business?
