The holiday season is bringing an important boost to businesses in downtown London as owners prepare for higher foot traffic and holiday spending.
Mike Smith owns Joe Kool’s, Toboggan Brewing Co., Fellini Koolini’s and The Runt Club. He said there are ongoing challenges but nothing unusual for this time of year.
Smith said parking continues to be one of the largest frustrations for customers. “Parking seems to be the biggest issue,” he said. “I’d like to see the city build more parking garages so that accessibility from customers isn’t an overpriced private lot.”
He also urged people to support independent businesses. “Most of the businesses in the downtown area are locally owned,” he said. “When you spend money in a locally owned business, that money stays in your town.”
The holiday period in the core begins with the Lighting of the Lights on Dec. 5 at Victoria Park. Vicky Smith, interim executive director of Downtown London, said the event “is the kickoff to downtown for the holidays” and gives people a reason to gather in the core.
“It is where community gathers and celebrations begin and excitement for the season begins,” she said. She added that the event encourages people to explore restaurants and stores and to “get to know the downtown if you’ve not been here.”
Vicky Smith said the cultural meaning of the event carries economic importance. “If there’s a healthy downtown then you have a healthy city,” she said.
She said businesses rely heavily on holiday revenue. “This season is always very important,” she said. “It’s money in their tills, which is very important. That’s what keeps them running and keeps them vibrant.” She said the season provides both a temporary bump and a chance for long-term recovery through repeat visits from new customers.
Holiday programming continues through December with horse-and-carriage rides and a carousel supported by London Hydro on the final two weekends before Christmas. It ends with a New Year’s Eve celebration in the core.
