Expect commercial real estate sales to continue standstill in 2009
Though regional commercial real estate managed to escape the toxic effects of the sinking residential market during the first three quarters of 2008, it caught up with the industry in recent months and may continue to weigh it down in 2009. “You really have to look at 2008 as being two totally different markets,” said Read More →
Entrepreneurs remembered
During 2008 we marked the passing of some remarkable entrepreneurs. Two that stand out are Herb Peterson and George Bliss. Peterson was a Chicago native and ad executive who worked on the McDonald’s account and helped create the persona of Ronald McDonald. Bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, he moved to Santa Barbara and created the Read More →
Shopping centers stand by expansion plans
Despite deflated holiday sales nationwide, large-scale regional shopping centers are continuing their development and expansion plans into 2009. As consumers spent less on holiday shopping, the retail industry capped 2008 with a depressed ending, as Black Friday sales promotions were unable to give it a much-needed lift. According to a Dec. 4 report by the Read More →
Small business gets lean
Small-business owners already know things aren’t looking bright for the coming year. But in such dire times, experts have some advice to help entrepreneurs weather the storm: streamline operations, find a niche, and get the most out of employees. “Focusing on the fundamentals of sound business practice is the best way to minimize the problems Read More →
Tourism could be a bright spot in 2009
As businesses and families cut back on spending, the tri-county tourism industry is prepared to take a slight hit in 2009. But, experts say, don’t bet on travelers giving up vacations altogether. Although the region’s tourism sector is already feeling the effects of a down economy, its location as an easy-drive destination for much of Read More →
Recession-proof by the case – Inexpensive wines expected to flourish
If 2008 was a year for sipping chardonnay in tasting rooms, 2009 will be a year for drinking zinfandel over the dinner table. Central Coast wineries know that in a recession, tourism typically dwindles. And as tourism and consumer spending decline, so do tasting room visits and restaurant and bar sales. But, as Deborah Baldwin, Read More →
