Construction
New Albany Businesses Glad Sherman Minton Bridge Construction Ends
2024-12-18
In New Albany, Indiana, a remarkable story unfolds over 88 years. The Schmitt family has been at the corner of State and Main, selling furniture, and has witnessed it all. During the construction that disrupted traffic across the Sherman Minton Bridge, they faced challenges but also showed remarkable resilience. 4th-generation owner Zack Schmitt stated, "We've learned we could survive just about anything." Preparing for a Friday before Christmas sale, the end of bridge construction came at a perfect time. Although it had a negative impact on overall traffic, it wasn't the only access point for Louisville customers. During the three years of disruptions, the Schmitts pivoted by concentrating their advertising on the Indiana side of the river and reminding Louisville customers of other bridge options. This strategy seemed to pay off, and they are looking forward to a great holiday shopping season.

Navigating Challenges and Thriving in Business

Schmitt Family's Furniture Business Amidst Bridge Construction

The Schmitt family's furniture business has been a staple in New Albany for 88 years. They have seen the ebb and flow of business over the decades. During the bridge construction, it was a test of their adaptability. Zack Schmitt shared, "We had to think outside the box and find new ways to reach our customers." They focused on local advertising and word-of-mouth to keep their business going. Despite the initial setbacks, they remained committed to serving their customers. Now, with the end of construction, they are ready to welcome back customers with open arms. 2: The Schmitts understand the importance of community. They have built relationships with their customers over the years and are grateful for their support. During the construction, they made sure to keep their customers informed and updated on the progress. This level of communication helped to build trust and loyalty. As they look to the future, they are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

The Elderberry Company's Experience During Bridge Disruptions

Across the street on Pearl Street, the Elderberry Company was also feeling the effects of the bridge construction. They opened a year before the construction started and had to quickly adapt to the changing circumstances. During the waves of confusing lane shutdowns, they leaned heavily into online sales. Megan Stump, Elderberry Company Chief of Products and Wholesale, said, "We had to pivot quickly and find new ways to reach our customers. Online sales became our lifeline during this time." They saw an increase in online sales after the bridge reopened, and it brought more holiday foot traffic to New Albany's small shops. 2: The Elderberry Company's success during the bridge disruptions is a testament to their innovation and adaptability. They were able to turn a challenging situation into an opportunity. By focusing on online sales and providing excellent customer service, they were able to weather the storm and come out stronger. Now, with the end of construction, they are looking forward to a busy holiday season and continued growth.In conclusion, both the Schmitt family and the Elderberry Company have shown remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Their stories serve as an inspiration to other businesses and show that with the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to thrive even in the toughest of times.>
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