The only state I can speak for is Mn, I haven't paid attention to any other states. I'd say in the last several years the number of clubs has decreased, particularly in the more rural areas. I can think of several closings and not a single brand new opening.
I read that opening a new club now a days can be difficult. The points made:
1) Takes a heck of a lot of money
2) SCs have a bad reputation (for many non-clubbers) and many municipalites or it's constituents do not want those kinds of businesses so local governments tend not to award permits for new clubs.
3) Because of #2 above (municipalities, constituents) - local governments are willing to "tolerate" existing clubs but not grant new permits for new clubs in order not to add to the total # of clubs (thus a new club can exist if it replaces a previous or closed club).
4) Even existing clubs do not want new clubs b/c of the competition - some times existing clubs will petition local governments not to grant new club permits in order to avoid the competition.
This is not my opinion, just what I read - but it makes sense.
Don't forget Ontario on your way to Detroit, LG/VM!!! I hear the unemployment rate in Canada is on the rise. Could mean bargains to be had in the Toronto clubs.
5 comments
Latest
1) Takes a heck of a lot of money
2) SCs have a bad reputation (for many non-clubbers) and many municipalites or it's constituents do not want those kinds of businesses so local governments tend not to award permits for new clubs.
3) Because of #2 above (municipalities, constituents) - local governments are willing to "tolerate" existing clubs but not grant new permits for new clubs in order not to add to the total # of clubs (thus a new club can exist if it replaces a previous or closed club).
4) Even existing clubs do not want new clubs b/c of the competition - some times existing clubs will petition local governments not to grant new club permits in order to avoid the competition.
This is not my opinion, just what I read - but it makes sense.