WINTER GARDEN, Fla. – Over the years, nationwide, small businesses have closed their doors after being faced with challenges, like inflation, supply chain issues, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
For a West Orange County local dessert shop, they say, despite the pandemic being over, they’re still struggling to survive.
Jennifer Pelcher is the owner of Abbott’s Frozen Custard in the Hamlin community. She opened the shop in 2019 and survived many challenges over that time. However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, a major issue has grown.
“Shipping costs have gone up.” On top of that, Pelcher adds, “These past few months have really gone down in terms of sales.”
Despite the shop being a part of a franchise, Pelcher says she pays for the majority of everything on her own. She says their products are shipped every other week from New York, costing more and more.
“I’ve seen it go over $100 for a pallet. Where it was costing me maybe about $600 for two pallets to ship down, it now costs $800,” she said.
Pelcher says she was in a bind to keep her doors open. So she decided to make a plea for help over social media to the community.
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“I don’t want it to be like I’m asking for a handout. I understand I got myself into this business and there are risks associated with it,” said Pelcher.
After the post was made, she says the response was overwhelming.
“It’s been amazing. It seriously brings tears to my eyes. I was here all weekend, from Friday night on to Sunday night. We had nonstop customers coming in,” said Pelcher.
Some customers who loved an extra sprinkle say they would be heartbroken if the shop closed.
Just like every small business owner Pelcher is uncertain how long it will last but hopes business will stay a float.
“I do have those concerns but I’m hoping to keep the momentum going and thanking the community for coming in,” said Pelcher.