The Brief
- Mendoza’s Mexican Mercado on Aurora Avenue has seen a 30% drop in sales compared to last year as fear of nearby ICE activity keeps customers away.
- To offset the loss of foot traffic and rising operational costs in Seattle, the market relies on partnerships like the Fresh Bucks program and supplying the Seattle Children’s Hospital food pantry.
- ICE responded to small business concerns by stating that removing criminals from the streets makes communities safer for business owners and customers.
SEATTLE – The owners of Mendoza’s Mexican Mercado, a 15-year staple along Seattle’s Aurora Avenue, say sales have dropped 30% compared to last year as fear of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity keeps customers away.
General Manager Carlos Cervantes reported that lunch crowds have thinned, and foot traffic has plummeted.
While the market has not seen enforcement officers directly outside its doors, Cervantes noted reports of heightened ICE activity nearby along the Aurora Avenue corridor, including the arrest of three men earlier this year near Evergreen Washelli Cemetery.
Economic pressure mounts on small businesses
Local perspective:…