Local Businesses Thrive as Students Return: A Rejuvenation Story from Florida’s Community

When students return to campus after a long winter break, local business owners in Gainesville breathe a sigh of relief.

Each year, these businesses face tough times when students leave. Revenue drops, staff is cut back, and customers are few. For many shops, adapting quickly to attract local customers is a real challenge.

According to the Alachua County Economic Performance Index, the area’s economy takes a hit in December. This trend starts again in May, just before the summer break. However, the economic picture brightens dramatically in September when students come back.

For some owners, this downturn is just part of running a business in a college town.

Jeremiah Loper, who runs 352 Delivery, knows this reality all too well. After 11 years, he feels the winter slump deeply. With many students leaving for the holidays, his revenue often drops by half.

“Winter break is the hardest time for local restaurants,” Loper shares. “It lasts longer and is more intense than any other break.”

Since his business relies on partner restaurants staying open, he faces another challenge: many choose to close entirely to cut costs. During the break, he sees only 45 to 50 restaurants available instead of the usual 80.

“It’s a significant drop,” he explains.

Those few employees who stay in Gainesville during the break might have their hours reduced or even face temporary layoffs, as demand dwindles.

“Many local drivers want to keep working,” Loper notes. “But with sales down, there are fewer orders and tips.”

Brian Gendreau, a finance professor at UF, says some businesses adapt by cutting back on seats or staff. For others, closing altogether is the best choice.

“Businesses that rely heavily on students feel this impact the most,” he adds.

Not only traffic decreases, but the workforce also shrinks. Many students who contribute to the local economy also make up a large part of the workforce in these shops.

“Most of the employees are students, and many prefer to be away for the holidays,” Gendreau explains.

However, not all businesses suffer equally. For example, Gina Marks from The Lynx Books shares that their bookstore manages to do better during winter. The holiday season is the peak buying time for books, so they benefit from the festive shopping.

“Surprisingly, we weren’t affected as much as I expected,” Marks says.

Every winter break brings challenges, but it also offers local businesses a chance to reset and prepare for the busy times ahead.