Super Bowl sparks sales surge in New Orleans (CNNMoney.com)
February 5, 2010 by Craig Guillot
Filed under Articles and Features, Featured
NEW ORLEANS (CNNMoney.com) — Saints fans have waited more than four decades for their team to get a taste of glory. When kicker Garrett Hartley made a 40-yard field goal to secure the Saints’ first trip to the Super Bowl, it proved to be a win not just for the team but for New Orleans’ businesses. Hotels, retailers, grocers and other merchants have noticed a rise in sales with every passing Saints victory.
Tommy Cvitanovich, owner of Dragos Seafood Restaurant, recently booked his second-highest sales day in 40 years. When the Saints faced the Cardinals on January 16 for a spot in the NFC Championships, both of his Dragos locations were filled to capacity.
“You can almost feel it,” Cvitanovich says. “After the Saints win, everyone just has a little extra pep in their step. They sit at the table longer and may have an extra drink. They’re just having more fun, and that drives check prices.”
Richie Savoie, owner of New Orleans Audio Video, says his electronics sales grew steadily throughout the season and then took off when the Saints won the NFC Championship two weeks ago. While shopping for sound-system upgrades and larger televisions, customers frequently bring up the team.
