From Staff Reports

Despite concerted efforts to roll out holiday activities in downtown Asheville to attract shoppers, Hayden Plemmons, executive dirctor of the Asheville Downtown Association, recently revealed that downtown foot traffic in December was down 20 percent from last year, Asheville television station WLOS (News 13) reported on Jan. 3.

Indeed, Plemmons told News 13 that, with the momentum of the holiday season behind them, businesses in Asheville are once again at risk of experiencing the lack of foot traffic and revenue brought on by Tropical Storm Helene, which ravaged the area on Sept. 27.

“In spite of Helene, downtown Asheville saw a busy holiday season with several events to bring in customers and visitors from around the area,” the TV station stated, despite Plemmons’ claim of a major decline in foot traffic. News 13 also did not explain what method Plemmons used to determine the 20 percent decline.

“Officials now say it is crucial to continue to host events and get the word out about bringing business to the area,” News 13 stated.
“Approximately 2,100 people participated in the ‘Shop Small, Win Big’ contest that encouraged visitors to do their holiday shopping at local businesses.

The Holiday Jamboree was also a success, bringing in a large turnout despite the event shifting from the usual parade celebration, Plemmons told News 13.

As for upcoming events in downtown Asheville, Plemmons noted that comedian Brian Regan will perform at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium on Jan. 8.

Also, he said, the winner of the Winter Windows Competition will be announced on Jan. 9, and Asheville Restaurant Week is planned for Jan. 21-27 and Feb. 18-24.

“Plemmons said the association hopes these events can help bolster slow business during the slow months,” News 13 noted. “It’s easier to lean into those holiday months. People are buying gifts and doing a lot of travel.

“So we’re looking for the first quarter, which is historically pretty slow for downtown. We’re really hoping that folks continue to come downtown so there are some events that will be driving traffic.”

News 13’s Comment Bubble appearing after its story included the following:

• WindRidge — “20% drop. Once again, how do they get their numbers?

“Asheville — the San Francisco of the East Coast.

“But San Fran downtown is empty storefronts and a collapsed economy.”