June 24, 2026 6p
(WGTD)---When it comes to keeping a downtown vibrant and healthy, business retention is a constant concern. As executive director of the Downtown Racine Corporation for the past 9 years, Kelly Kruse has seen dozens of businesses come and go.
Speaking on the Morning Show last week, Kruse said for one thing operating any business is not easy. "There's just so much and often times it's just somebody who really is passionate about something that just wants to start a business," Kruse said, adding, "And more power to them. I love that. I love entrepreneurship. But it's harder than people think."
It takes passion, a good work ethic and business and marketing know how, Kruse said.
There are common denominators that separate businesses that stick around from others that don't last.
For example, Kruse has high hopes for a business that opened last fall. Autumn Latimore's Stitched Quilt Shop at 505 6th Street is now flourishing. "She did her homework way ahead of time and had a huge following and a huge support system. She did her market research and realized she could be a destination business," Kruse said.
The Downtown Racine Corporation offers various support services for existing merchants and prospective business owners who are contemplating opening up a shop in the downtown area.
A couple of fun facts about downtown Racine: Kruse counts 20 ethnic restaurants and 4 custom jewelry shops.
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