JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (WDRB) – The cold, snowy weather has not only made driving hazardous but has also left many local businesses struggling with lower sales.
As snow continues to blanket southern Indiana and Louisville, some small business owners say it’s more profitable to stay closed rather than brave slow foot traffic and mounting expenses.
During the winter months, it can be tough for some retail locations, especially this year, it can be more profitable just to stay closed.
Perla Zavala, who has owned her Jeffersonville store "Mood" for just over two years, has noticed significant changes in the economy and job market, but this winter’s harsh conditions have created an additional challenge.
“There’s just been a lot less people out,” Zavala said. “I feel like everybody is kind of going through a little something.”
With only a couple of employees, even a small dip in business can have a big impact for her.
“You don’t know if there’s going to be anybody walking in to make the day’s needs,” she added.
Higher-than-normal snowfall has forced some store owners to keep their doors closed on certain days—a tough decision that directly affects their bottom line.
“There are those days where you say, ‘I am just going to stay home’ and call it a day,” Zavala said. “That is kind of what you have to do sometimes—make those hard decisions.”
Luanne Mattson, with SoIN Tourism, understands the difficulty of running a business without corporate backing.
“The challenge with a small business is that you are on your own,” Mattson said. “You don’t have a corporate parent to help support those days when you may not have a lot of traffic.”
Julia Brown, manager of That Cute Little Shop in Louisville, echoed similar concerns. Even with 16 years in business, this winter has stood out as particularly tough.
“No one wants to be out and about in all this shopping,” Brown said. “It’s just too much—it’s too cold. We definitely notice a decrease in in-person shopping.”
To counteract the slow season, many brick-and-mortar stores have leaned heavily on social media to boost sales. Despite the lower-than-expected revenue, business owners remain hopeful as they prepare for Derby season.
“Starting here in just a couple weeks, people will be gearing up for all of that,” Brown said. “That’s what we are just trying to focus on—we are ready here in the store for it.”
Zavala remains optimistic about the future, believing in the resilience of the local community.
“I think we are going to be here for a little longer,” she said. “I don’t think the community is going to let us down.”
Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
