Retail News: D.C. Stores Gearing Up for Obama Weekend

With a record breaking turn out expected at President-Elect Barack Obama’s inauguration, Washington D.C. retailers are gearing-up for temporary boost of revenue from the millions of people visiting the capital this weekend, according to Women’s Wear Daily.

“Stores, restaurants and hotels are expected to see a year-over-year bump of $7 million to $10 million from the inauguration,” says Dan Tangherlini, city administrator.

Local retailers are hoping to maximize from the new opportunities associated with Mr. Obama’s official arrival to the White House. The nation’s capital and the surrounding cities are estimating that over $75 million dollars will be spent by travelers and residents during the inauguration period. Smart merchants are linking their goods and services to the inaugural events to generate additional sale opportunities.-QS