Community outpouring prompts Cherokee County plant shop to delay closure

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Customers are rallying around a family-owned business in Cherokee County after the owners announced plans to close, showing up in droves to offer support just one day later.

Busy B Plant Supply, a locally owned shop known for its house plants, native plants and perennials, has been struggling under the weight of inflation and other economic challenges. The business is the livelihood for the owners and their six children, and they have been forced to let go of a significant number of employees.

“We are one of the few stores around that carry house plants as well as natives and perennials,” said Brandon Robinson, owner of Busy B Plant Supply.

For longtime customers, the store represents much more than just a place to buy plants.

“I was kind of one of the original customers, and I really just fell in love with this family,” said Ansley Powers, a customer who has supported the business for six and a half years.

Customers say the owners have consistently given back to the community, often in generous ways.

“They are the kindest, most giving people. They do everything for this community. People need a Christmas tree, you’ll get one for free,” Powers said.

Over the past two years, the owners say inflation and rising costs have made it increasingly difficult to stay afloat.

“When you need to afford groceries and things that are not plants, you’re going to stick to those first,” Robinson said.

After announcing the decision to close, the response from the community was immediate.

“Our customers came through in the biggest way possible. We had a line wrapped around the door for two days,” Robinson said.

For customers like Powers, the news of the closure was emotional.

“I did cry. Just because it’s tragic,” she said.

Even now, customers continue to show up, purchasing what remains in the store.

“We have a few trees and shrubs,” Robinson said.

The overwhelming support has left the owners reconsidering their decision to close permanently.

“The amount of overwhelming support has left us with time to consider everything,” Robinson said.

To make matters more challenging, the family is also caring for their six-month-old child, who recently had surgery, adding to the pressure they are facing. The owners say it would take a miracle and major changes to how they operate to remain open, but for now, the community’s support has given them time.

Those who want to help are encouraged to stop by the business.

Community Response to Closure

The community's reaction to the potential closure of Busy B Plant Supply has been nothing short of extraordinary. Local residents have come together to show their support, demonstrating the deep connection between the store and the people who frequent it. This outpouring of solidarity highlights the importance of small businesses in fostering a sense of belonging and continuity within neighborhoods.

• Emotional Impact: Many customers expressed their sadness over the news, emphasizing the personal relationships formed over the years. For some, the store wasn’t just a place to purchase plants—it was a part of their daily lives and routines.
• Community Involvement: The owners have long been active members of the community, contributing to local events and offering assistance during times of need. Their generosity has created a loyal customer base that feels personally invested in the success of the business.
• Economic Challenges: The decision to close was influenced by financial pressures, including rising costs and inflation. These factors have made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to maintain profitability, especially in an environment where consumer spending is being stretched thin.

What the Future Holds

While the owners initially felt that closing was the only option, the community's support has given them pause. This unexpected surge of encouragement has led them to reevaluate their plans and explore potential solutions that could allow the business to remain open.

• Reconsidering Decisions: The overwhelming response has provided the family with time to think about alternative strategies, such as adjusting their business model or seeking additional support from the community.
• Need for Change: The owners acknowledge that significant changes would be necessary to keep the business running. This includes finding new ways to manage costs and potentially expanding their offerings to attract more customers.
• Hope for the Future: Despite the challenges, the support from customers has reignited hope for the future of Busy B Plant Supply. The community's actions have shown that there is still value in preserving local businesses and the relationships they foster.

How You Can Help

For those who wish to support Busy B Plant Supply, there are several ways to contribute:

• Visit the Store: Even if you don't need plants, stopping by can provide a boost to the business and show your support.
• Spread the Word: Sharing the story of Busy B Plant Supply on social media or with friends can help raise awareness and encourage others to visit.
• Offer Assistance: If you have skills or resources that could be useful to the business, reaching out to the owners directly may be a way to help.

As the situation continues to unfold, the community's unwavering support serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of standing by local businesses during difficult times.