The goal of the Economic Restructuring Committee is to identify new market opportunities for Florence’s Downtown commercial district, find new uses for historic commercial buildings, and stimulate investment in downtown properties. Our plans call for major improvements in arts, culture, waterfront recreation, tourism, and conference opportunities in downtown. It also calls for the addition of new retail, service, and restaurant opportunities.
Strengthening existing businesses through seminars, consultant visits, etc.
Recruit new downtown businesses to fill gaps in the market
Find new economic uses for traditional Main Street spaces
Develop financial incentives and capital for building rehabilitation and business development
Monitor the economic performance of downtown on an ongoing basis and collect market data
Work with local financial institutions, Chamber and business assistance organizations on any matters related to downtown, in cooperation with design committee’s building inventory
Promote downtown as a good place to do business
Our market research shows huge potential for:
Restaurants – especially new southern cuisine, seafood and ethnic
Home furnishings, decor, gifts, antiques, garden and other home related stores
Book stores and news dealers
Sporting goods/college goods
Clothing Stores – men’s, women’s (especially for 50+ demographic), children’s, and infants
Shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, luggage
Hobby, toys and game stores
Novelty and souvenir stores
Arts dealers/ art studio and instruction/ paint your own pottery
Food related- grocery market, meal prep, bakery, and gourmet ice cream
Pet related- boarding, daycare, grooming and gifts
Doctors, dentists, health professionals
Banking, financial services, legal services
Florence Main Street’s committees are extremely energetic, organized, creative, and open to new ideas while reviewing old ones. Florence Main Street has many events planned for the next year and will need your fresh ideas and help.If you have skills or interest in business, real estate, economics, or market research, this committee is for you! We are always looking for new ideas and enthusiastic volunteers. Please contact us!