Georgetown business owners say new hotel helped attract new business
GEORGETOWN, S.C. (WCBD)–Businesses in Georgetown are experiencing growth and economic success due to the influx of visitors shopping locally. Many businesses believe it stems from the opening of The George, a hotel on Front Street.
Business owners along the waterfront district said the boutique hotel has been a revenue generator.
“Talking to local stores and business owners makes me feel like the George Hotel is a cornerstone of the growth and development of Front Street. There is so much great history here, and now there are more restaurants and more shops, and it feels great to be a part of that,” said Drue Ford, the general manager at the George.
On March 1, 2024, The George began operations, allowing guests from all over to lodge at the facility. Officials said that a recent survey found that over 60% of the tourists who came to the city stayed at the George, which caused many people to shop at local businesses on Front Street.
One local business owner News 2 spoke to owns a shop near the hotel, and she told us she is thankful for The George and neighboring businesses because her shop has been booming even during slow seasons.
“Our business has been booming. Sure, this is a slow time for Georgetown; however, Christmas was booming, and we take off in September and go all the way to December, and it’s busy; the George and other places have impacted small businesses in Georgetown,” said Susan Lumpkin, owner of Rice and Birds in Georgetown.
City officials said they knew the George would become an economic driver for the waterfront district and are excited to see the growth trend continue.
“I said long before The George opened that I believe they would be a catalyst for development in our historic waterfront district, and they have not only been a catalyst for business, but they have been a great partner for the city of Georgetown,” said Al Joseph, the director of Main Street for the city of Georgetown.
On Saturday, 3/8, The George is hosting a backyard celebration for the first anniversary from 12–3 p.m. To access tickets, click the link down below.
