Wednesday, June 19, 2013

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Local Stores Seeing an Increase in Business as Temperatures Rise
There’s a short wait to get your bike fixed at The Bicycle Shop on Dimond
By Heather Hintze
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ANCHORAGE - Local stores are seeing an increase in business as temperatures rise.

With the May 1 deadline for studded tire removal fast approaching, workers at Johnson’s Tire Service in Midtown are staying busy.

“We have a very experienced staff on board and of course we try to bring back seasoned guys who've worked with us before, and during this time of year we ramp up and bring on more guys,” said Matt Witwer, Johnson’s assistant manager.

They work on hundreds of cars a day and try to get people moved through the line as fast as they can, but there’s still a two-hour wait.

There’s also a short wait to get your bike fixed at The Bicycle Shop on Dimond.

“Weekends are really super busy right now. It's a constant stream of traffic, sometimes it's hard to keep up with everybody. Sometimes it's hard keeping enough bikes in stock and on the floor,” said Rick Kelly, the head salesman.

The shop added three more part-time employees to help out with the work load. Up to 25 people a day come to get their bikes tuned up.

“I want to be able to ride them now that the trails are getting better. I like riding my bicycle everywhere and as the weather gets better I'll ride it to school and to work,” said Doug Williams who came in for a tune up.

At REI shoppers are eager to get their spring supplies like camping gear or clothes for running and hiking. Salesmen said people are stocking up on everything they’ll need to enjoy the great outdoors.

“People are just anxious to get outside in warm weather on dry pavement and dry trails to enjoy Alaska and enjoy are surroundings,” said Bob Voris.

Springtime shoppers provide a great boost for businesses and managers hope they’ll continue to spend well into the summer season.