Business owners in downtown Louisville are experiencing a shift in their customer base, with a mix of locals and tourists frequenting their establishments. This change comes as major corporations, such as LG&E, Humana, and Fifth Third Bank, have moved out of their downtown offices. The departure of these businesses has led to a noticeable decrease in foot traffic and a rise in tourists visiting the area.
Jeff Kopple, co-owner of Sicilian Pizza & Pasta, noted that after 15 years in business, he is observing more tourists than locals coming through the door. However, there is still hope that the local customer base will return to its former glory, despite the increased focus on tourism.
Louisville Tourism president and CEO Cleo Battle highlighted the city’s upcoming major events, such as the 150th Kentucky Derby and the PGA Championship, which are expected to attract a record number of visitors. This presents an opportunity for downtown businesses to showcase the city’s offerings and entice visitors to return.
Despite the focus on tourism, the local community remains important to business owners. Kopple reminisced about the once-thriving lunch crowds and expressed a desire to see the return of local patrons to downtown establishments. The mayor has also assembled a committee to plan the future vision of downtown, indicating efforts to revitalize the area for both locals and visitors alike.
As Louisville prepares for an influx of tourists, businesses are adapting to new strategies, such as emphasizing delivery services to sustain operations. The dynamic shift in the downtown landscape underscores the need for businesses to engage with both locals and tourists to ensure a prosperous future for the city.
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