Small businesses in Yuma receive sales boost from holiday shoppers

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - An influx of seasonal visitors to Yuma provided a significant boost to local small businesses during the holiday shopping season, with owners reporting strong sales and increased customer traffic.

Abigail Gutierrez, owner of GM Accessories, said the surge was expected.

“We knew for a fact that December was gonna be a good month,” she said.

Business owners emphasized that the holiday period is not only beneficial but essential for sustaining operations throughout the year. CJ Alberts, owner of Sunny’s Bookstore, highlighted the importance of the season.

“I think for a lot of small businesses, the holidays are when you make a major portion of your income. That’s especially true for bookstores,” she said.

Alberts added that sales at Sunny’s Bookstore were up about 25 percent compared to last year’s holiday season. Gutierrez also credited community support and tourism for the success.

“People are coming into Yuma," Gutierrez said. "I always say that the Yuma community is so welcoming, and they are really good about supporting small businesses.”