In what should come as a surprise to absolutely no one, Live 5 News is reporting that Folly Beach businesses have taken a hit in sales since the town’s alcohol ban. Bert’s Market told the television station back in July that they experienced an immediate dip in profit, but now other establishments are saying the same. The business owners told Live 5 News that traffic has “declined massively” and they had losses ranging from 20% to 40% year-over-year.
The whole situation stinks even more because these are mostly “mom-and-pop” businesses that may not survive this huge drop-off. I have to once again say congrats to the Folly City Council for supporting a hasty decision that may end up being more of a detriment than a help to their community.
When I went to Folly a few weeks ago I saw the biggest police presence on the beach then I’d ever seen before. There were police and security officials everywhere I looked. Like I’ve mentioned ad nauseum, this type of security and police presence from the beginning probably would have helped prevent most of the issues on Folly Beach. It’s too late and completely unnecessary now.
As much as I love being right, I implore you to still visit Folly Beach. I want these businesses to survive. I want the town to make money, especially to help the ongoing erosion issue or to help save the Morris Island Lighthouse. Head out to the Edge of American and buy a sandwich at the Wich Doctor or a coffee at Black Magic or a beer at Snapper Jack’s or a dessert at Tokyo Crepes or a snack at Bert’s Market or WHATEVER, just keep going to Folly Beach!
You can read/watch the Live 5 News piece HERE.