HOLLISTER, Calif. -- New numbers released from the Hollister Downtown Association show 11 new businesses opened up, and five walked away in 2012. That's compared to 22 starts and 11 losses in 2011.
That means 28 new jobs turned into 14 jobs lost in 2012, and 50 new jobs turned into 17 losses.
"It's changed to the point that people tend not to shop at the mom and pop type store. They want to go to the larger facilities, larger stores," said Jerry Muenzer, San Benito County Board of Supervisor. His family owns Muenzer's Inc.
He said that's why the business is struggling to survive, even after more than 100 years in Hollister.
It's gotten so bad that the company is selling off most of its merchandise to downsize and operate as just a locksmith shop. It's getting rid of all the sporting goods, bikes, and clothes, then moving to the smaller shop next door later this year.
"Unfortunately, the retail industry is changing, and is always changing," Muenzer said.
And it's no different for Christie Martin, who has been owning Holliwood for about six months now. She said it's hard to make a profit in Hollister.
"It's hit or miss. There's some days where there's just no business and there's other days where I do fantastic," she said.
But it hasn't just been Hollister. Business is rough for some owners on Alvarado Street in Monterey, too.
In August of 2012, business owner Joy Sandoval told Central Coast News she's moving to another city, possibly Carmel, where there's more foot traffic.
And while many businesses in Hollister said they're struggling, there are some expanding, including Heaven Scent Day Spa and Salon.
Owner Belinda Gallo said word of mouth has helped spread the word about her business.
"I'm really excited to be able to expand and be able to offer more services because we're doing really, really well, and I think Hollister has a lot of potential," she said.
Heaven Scent Day Spa and Salon will open at its new location in downtown Hollister on Feb. 16.
