Jul 2, 2010

Taft Businesses Surviving the EconomyBy Jessica G. Miller and Jessica WallisTaftIndependent.com

Taft, CA — Downtown Taft is holding up against a not very business friendly economy that has seen many businesses open, and some close. For the most part, Center Street in Downtown Taft is holding its own in an economy that has seen Kern County, California and the whole country reeling from the recession and high unemployment. Here are a few business owners and their thoughts about having a business in downtown Taft.

Personal Style Salon and Boutique

Vickie Gregory has served the people of Taft for 32 years, the last five of which have been spent at her salon and boutique, Personal Style and more recently, her children’s shop, Kids Stop.

The salon and shop owner is planning to expand her beauty and fashion empire down the 400 block of Center St. “Opening the walls in the boutique and kid’s shop will make it much more convenient for our shoppers,” she said. “I will be able to oversee both businesses better under one roof.”

Although Gregory is says her goal is to serve Taft, her outlook on the downtown area is bleak. “Center Street looks rundown in areas and people might feel more comfortable coming to shop if it was cleaned up and had a better atmosphere,” she said.

However, she still encourages people to shop local. “Taft people need to come out and see what’s on Center Street and in Taft,” she said. “They need to give us a chance before they head to Bakersfield, you might be surprised with what you find.”

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