The economy is not good. The situation is difficult for consumers. The situation is difficult for small and medium-sized businesses.
Especially small and medium-sized enterprises.
“The cost of living in California needs to change,” Mona Aquino said.
Mr. Aquino bought Pauly’s Pizza Joint on Miramar Road in San Diego 15 years ago. She said the past four years have been the toughest.
“Everything just skyrocketed,” she said, picking up an empty pizza box. “This is what we use the most. It used to be about $15 per sleeve (for a box). Now it’s $35 to $40.”
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, prices for everyone have increased 23% since April 2019. The institute said prices should have risen by only 11%.
“Everyone is trying to cut corners. Everyone is trying to save money,” Aquino sighs.
Dena Brown, who is overseeing construction of The Bunker on the street, had similar concerns. Brown had never owned a business before.
“No, never. This is all a new and fresh chapter in my life,” Brown said. “My advisor advised me not to do that.”
Brown designs The Bunker for active duty and retired military personnel. It’s only been a few weeks since we opened. While the cost alone is eye-popping, Brown said getting through government red tape doesn’t make life any easier.
“Let A, B, and C know that they don’t have to go back to the office three times to understand this process and how it works, and that ‘this’ requires ‘this’.”
“That’s pushing small businesses away,” Aquino agreed.
Both owners know the economy is similarly tough for their customers. Mr. Brown and Mr. Aquino need to balance what they charge with what they charge their customers.
“Are you looking at what you’re going to do tomorrow? How was last night? You’re always looking at comparisons,” Aquino said.
Brown said other new owners should do their research to be better prepared than they were before tackling the bunker. Sadly, Aquino said if he had the chance today, he probably would never buy Paul’s Pizza Joint again.
“You know, this is California. I just hope things get better next year,” she shrugged.
