What are the risks of bringing big national chains to the local merchants in downtown?
National chains will be brought in as a result of this plan. National chains can acquire merchandise in larger bulk than local merchants. So, they can sell it below market prices and run local merchants out of business. After the competition is eliminated they control the market and the prices. Also important to this Downtown-Segundo Barrio Plan is exactly what kind of stores will be brought downtown. Right now the stores in the area serve the needs of the people and their respective limited budgets. With more upscale shopping taking over the people of the area will have to travel further distances to get what they need. A new clientele will take over downtown.
