Local businesses did well this football season despite sluggish economy

By Sarah Rice (srice@wsbt.com)

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Notre Dame football economy

Many businesses told WSBT News Notre Dame football home game weekends were a success for them this year. (WSBT Photo)

By WSBT News1

SOUTH BEND — Irish football fans have called it a season at Notre Dame Stadium. Some local businesses say the sluggish economy didn't have an impact on their business.

While Irish fans are reflecting on Saturday's loss against Syracuse ...

"I was a little disappointed," said fan Tim Delaney.

"Disappointed in the game though, and I know everyone here is as well," said fan Chad Collins.

Businesses are counting their cash.

"We actually sold every one of our rooms, and I believe we were one of the highest selling hotels in the area," said Quality Inn general manager Steve Johnson.

With more than 200 rooms, Quality Inn on 933 is the second largest hotel in South Bend. Johnson says despite the sluggish economy, sales have been good this football season.

"We did better this year than we did last year, so no. Next year hopefully it'll be a little bit better," said Johnson.

And restaurants have also been dishing out big numbers.

"Really, despite the economy, things are doing really good. Every Sunday morning after the game it's unreal," said Pancake House manager Andy Manos.

Businesses say sales depend a lot on what happens at Notre Dame Stadium. When the team wins, businesses do too. But Johnson says convenience also plays a big part.

Unlike other hotels, Quality Inn doesn't require a minimum three-day stay during home game weekends.

"What we're trying to do to keep up with the times and the demand of the hotels we trying to make sure that people can come in the day of the arrivals," said Johnson.

Keeping die hard fans coming back year after year, no matter what the score.

"I'd like to come back to some games, but I'm hoping they escalate the program here, they need it," said Collins.

"Like I said I think they're still young so I think they're going to turn the season around next year," said Delaney.

While home football games are big money makers, Johnson said the Quality Inn actually does better in the summer. That's because of events like Junior Irish Soccer and men's and women's softball championships.

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