Local businesses look forward to 2011

Bellmore-Merrick business owners said in an informal Herald survey that they welcome the new year after a tough 2010. This past year, they said, they saw ups and downs in sales, with fluctuations in an economy that was attempting to right itself after one of the worst recessions in U.S. history.

Local business owners said they hope 2011 will provide a steady increase in revenues and profits. They also said they are aware that many people have become conservative in their spending. They reminded residents that their money stays in their hometowns when they buy locally.

“I think consumers are still being very conservative and careful about the purchases they make,” said Tim Feldis, owner of Feldis Florist in Merrick. To keep prices low, Feldis said, he is continually looking to drive down his costs.

Gary Hudes, who owns Gennaro Jewelers in Bellmore and is a Town of Hempstead councilman and a former Bellmore Chamber of Commerce president, said that supporting local businesses is critical to turning the area’s economy around. “When you spend your money in a local store, that person is taking that profit and they’re buying goods locally, they’re eating out locally, they’re buying supplies locally, and that money circulates here,” Hudes said.

Gennaro Jewelers, he said, saw sales climb in 2010. “We spend a lot of time on customer service, knowledge and making sure that every customer is satisfied,” Hudes said.

A commitment to service is what separates local businesses from the big-box stores, he said. For businesses looking to increase sales in the coming year, Hudes suggested focusing on improving customer service. “The more that small businesses recognize that, the better off they’ll be in business, whether they’re in good times or softer times,” he said. He even suggested that business owners ask other local merchants to shop or browse at their stores and rate their customer service.