Allendale, MI – As approximately 20,000 students return to Grand Valley State University (GVSU) this fall, local businesses along M-45 in Allendale are experiencing a remarkable boost. The influx of students has reignited economic activity, especially benefiting restaurants and bars that rely heavily on the university’s vibrant community.
The transition from summer’s quiet to fall’s bustling energy has been likened to a switch flipping by business owners. With welcome week delivering robust customer traffic, establishments are celebrating one of their best starts to the academic year.
Business Boom Along M-45: A Welcome Surge
Caralyn DeVito, owner of Main Street Pub, has witnessed this surge firsthand. Since opening in 2004, the pub has become a beloved fixture for GVSU students, largely due to its strategic location directly across from campus.
“It’s like a switch has flipped; it’s quiet, and then all of a sudden everyone is in town,” DeVito said. “We had the best move-in year we’ve ever seen.”
Main Street Pub’s strong start to fall 2024 illustrates how closely tied the establishment’s success is to the student population, with the move-in weekend marking record-breaking numbers compared to previous years.
Adapting to Student Demand: Hiring and Traditions at Peppino’s
Down the road, Peppino’s restaurant owner Francesca Dileonardo is navigating a busy back-to-school period marked by increased customer flow and staffing needs. To keep up, Peppino’s has been actively hiring, responding to a noticeable shift in business patterns.
“Welcome week was a little chaotic, but we did it,” said Dileonardo. “It’s not a dramatic influx, but business definitely changes with the students back on campus, especially with more weekend customers and catered events.”
In addition to economic uplift, Peppino’s is also witnessing the return of cherished family traditions. Many parents who studied at GVSU now bring their children to Peppino’s, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia that strengthens community bonds.
The Symbiotic Relationship Between GVSU and Allendale Businesses
The resurgence of student activity highlights the symbiotic relationship between GVSU and the Allendale business community. Over decades, local businesses have thrived by aligning themselves with the university’s calendar and culture, helping to create a vibrant small-town atmosphere enriched by student presence.
- Approximately 20,000 GVSU students returned this fall, increasing local commerce.
- Main Street Pub experienced its best move-in weekend ever.
- Peppino’s reported increased weekend and catering business, hiring additional staff.
- Parents who attended GVSU bring their families back to local favorites, reinforcing community ties.
These developments underscore the critical role students play in sustaining Allendale’s economic vitality.
For further details and coverage, see the original report from FOX 17 News West Michigan here.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Allendale
Business owners express optimism about the remainder of the academic year. They anticipate continued strong patronage and see opportunities to enhance their offerings to better serve the student population. The success of early fall 2024 suggests promising economic prospects for Allendale’s local businesses as long as the university flourishes.
What do you think about the surge in business thanks to GVSU students? Have you visited Main Street Pub or Peppino’s during the school year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
