Local Businesses Feeling Effect of Down Economy

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Story Published: Oct 10, 2008 at 5:23 PM MST

Story Updated: Dec 18, 2008 at 3:01 PM MST

By Anthony Congi

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IDAHO FALLS - From baby boutiques, jewelery stores, camera stores and salons, each are feeling the effects of the down market.

Many owners don't know what lies ahead for them or other businesses.

"Some people are going to have tough times, Some businesses probably may not be around," says Lyn Pletscher, owner of Lyn's.

Lyn still stays busy but worries what the slumping economy could do.

"It is frightening. We've never been there before. This is all new. I don't know," says Pletscher.

Other businesses are hoping the upcoming holiday season will boost revenue.

"A lot of people come in here, they're ready to buy and they don't really think about what they're spending their money on until after the holidays," says Inkley's sales associate Chris Kersh.

Salon's like The Defining Line haven't seen a decline but people are buying fewer products and going longer between services.

"Getting your hair done is kind of a luxury so when the money's not there and grocery prices are up and gas prices are up, luxury items are the first thing to go," explains hair stylist Marci Bailey.

Stores that offer financing like Ingram's Jewelery, are still trying to extend credit to people, but have to be more selective now.

"We've always just tried to help people and give them an opportunity to prove themselves with credit and I guess we'll have to be a little more cautious too because as we get into this I've seen more people are struggling a little bit," says owner, Stan Ingram.

Ingram's has been at their location over forty years and knows other places are worse off.

"I think we're all worried. Concerned as to what the future holds in store but we live in a great area. The problems here don't seem to be nearly as bad as they are in other parts of the country," says Ingram.

Even though the business owners are a bit worried, everyone I spoke with today is expecting things to get better before they get worse.

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