Downtown Rocky Point Encouraged by Holiday Business

The overwhelming sentiment of the holiday season from stores in downtown Rocky Point is that it was better than last year.

The indication that the local economy may be starting an upswing was a welcome sign among area retailers.

“It seems to be picking up again,” said Joan Fuco, owner of . “I think it’s starting to get better, or at least people are more confident.”

Fuco went on to say that Christmas was an unexpected lift for the store. They sold more holiday themed items than usual. Gingerbread was also a highly sought-after product.

Being one of the last country stores in the area is a benefit for Lost Treasures. Fuco reported that most of the customers are from the nearby neighborhoods and that even the simple act of walking her dogs can help bring in a few extra customers.

“People see me with the dogs, or they hear about them, and they just stop by to see what it’s about,” Fuco said.

also reported a better holiday season than last year. Although owner Gary Wladyka said the number of sales isn’t down over recent years, the amount customers are spending is.

“The price point is down a little bit,” Wladyka said. “People are still buying, but instead of a $750 bike they’re buying one for $500. Instead of a $500 bike their getting one for $300.”

Wladyka stated that he’s also seeing a transition in his customer base as less casual purchases are being made, but bike enthusiasts are increasing in number and buying more. He also said that parents are also cutting back buying for their children a little bit, but not too much.

Cutting back on luxury items and sticking with necessities is a trend that’s been hitting the as well. Manager Nick Patel stated that the big ticket items have been selling slower than usual.

The smoke shop has been hit on two fronts: the economy and customers looking to improve their health. He said, “People who smoke two packs a day now only smoke one. People who used to smoke a pack a day I only see every other day now.”

Patel said he estimates that sales at the store are down about 20 percent.

Perhaps the best hope Fuco sees is not just the sales and the confidence, but in the kind of products they’re buying. She said, “People are looking more for American-made products. That’s a great sign.”