SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Small businesses across Utah have felt the squeeze as a combination of the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cuts, economic slowdowns, and rising tariffs are impacting local spending. As the effects of these financial shifts continue to ripple through the economy, many entrepreneurs in the Beehive State are facing increased expenses and fewer customers.
One local business particularly feeling the pressure is Policy Kings Brewery in Salt Lake City. Despite opening with great success, the brewery is now struggling to stay afloat as customer traffic dwindles, and operating costs rise.
Owners Sara and Deandre Ridgel opened Policy Kings Brewery six years ago in Cedar City and moved to Salt Lake City in hopes of attracting a larger customer base. Their initial months at the new location were promising, but since then, foot traffic has significantly decreased…