Labor Day Weekend Boosts Charleston’s Small Businesses
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — Labor Day weekend signals the end of summer, and this year, AAA reports that many travelers are hitting the road, benefitting local small businesses in Charleston.
Despite rising gas prices, road trips continue to dominate holiday travel, accounting for 90% of trips. Last year, drivers paid over a dollar less per gallon compared to this year’s prices. Charleston International Airport saw about 39,000 travelers last Labor Day, with similar expectations for this weekend.
Tiffany M. Wright from AAA notes that gas prices have risen recently, which may impact travelers. “We’ve seen an upward tick over the last few days… Unfortunately, as travelers are going to hit the road, they’re going to be doing so with higher prices at the pump,” she says.
Service calls are also increasing due to higher temperatures, primarily for dead batteries and flat tires. AAA had over 10,000 rescues in the Carolinas last year, a figure expected to rise.
Wright suggests vehicle checks before traveling, recommending drivers inspect their tires, fluids, and batteries and prepare emergency kits. AAA rescued over 400,000 motorists nationwide during this holiday period, mainly for battery and tire issues.
Heavier traffic also benefits Charleston’s small businesses. In the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, shop owners collaborate on events to increase foot traffic. Mimi Striplin, founder of The Tiny Tassel, shared that summer brings both visitors and a slight slowdown due to heat.
“After Labor Day, we typically see customers start to spend more,” Striplin says. “They get into the mindset of a new school year and start gift shopping earlier.” The Tiny Tassel will be open on Labor Day, encouraging local shopping for gifts and back-to-school needs.
AAA also reminds motorists about its Tow to Go program, which provides free emergency towing for impaired drivers without a sober driver or ride home.
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