Florida tourism numbers are up, according to statistics released by Visit Florida. In 2025, Florida received 143.3 million visitors, an increase from 2024, resulting in an economic impact of $133.6 billion. Needless to say, tourism in Florida continues to be a wonderful opportunity for small business growth, though it’s important to work strategically to capitalize on this booming tourism economy.

Initially, it may seem that businesses directly serving tourists may be the sole beneficiaries of visitors. In recent years, 34% of domestic visitors participated in beach or waterfront activities, while 23% took advantage of dining and shopping. Of course, restaurants and hotels are most likely to obtain those tourism dollars. However, the trickle-down effect is real and far-reaching. For example, more guests in an area also means more medical needs, dry cleaning and grocery spending — even services like paving or landscaping see an increase to keep all those tourists happy. Businesses of all sizes and offerings can benefit from a growing tourism industry, so set your business up for success with these tips.

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Partner with the Tourism Economy

Consider partnering with area businesses that directly serve tourists to leverage exposure opportunities. Cross-promotions and reciprocal referral incentives are always helpful. Another way to network in this manner is by engaging with your local chambers of commerce for directory listing opportunities and word-of-mouth recommendations.

Optimize Your Business’s Digital Footprint​

Today’s travelers often make impromptu decisions based on a speedy internet search. From searches like “pizza near me” to “hair salons offering balayage” to “stroller rentals,” the results of these quick searches result in patronage for the top-appearing listings. With that in mind, be sure your business has an easily navigable website and an active Google Business Profile. Posts on social media platforms, like Instagram, now also appear in search engine results, so it’s also important to maintain those platforms if they are relevant to your business.

Solidify the Paperwork

As a small business owner, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up when attempting to capture some of those tourism dollars. Or perhaps you are capturing those dollars, but the administrative backlog is taking its toll. It’s easy to focus on the product or service you are passionate about providing, but don’t let the needed paperwork bring your business down. The important thing to remember is to use your resources wisely.

Working with a partner like Southern Consumers Alliance (SCA) can ease these anxieties. With consultants on hand to discuss everything from taxes to hiring, these behind-the-scenes tasks don’t have to feel overwhelming. For example, SCA offers the following:

• Tax Talk – From informative videos to access to certified public accountants, pressing tax questions are answered promptly.
   
• Finance Talk – For SCA members, education on working capital, financing receivables and personal and business finances is readily accessible. And all email inquiries are answered promptly, usually within the next business day.
   
• Employee Talk – As your business grows to accommodate the state's increasing tourism, adding to your team is inevitable. With hiring comes many questions — both logistical and legal. Partnering with a membership organization, like SCA, gives you access to experts in this field to ensure your business expands in the best possible way.

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Make Florida’s Tourism Dollars Work for Your Business

The tourism industry offers many growth possibilities for small businesses — especially in Florida. It’s the businesses that collaborate, network and utilize their resources wisely that will see the most success.

As noted above, whether your business is directly impacted by increased visitors or in an ancillary industry, there are numerous opportunities and extensive ways to ensure the economic impact hits your bottom line.

SCA serves small business owners and self-employed individuals, providing resources to help them grow their businesses. To learn more about some of those offerings, visit our website.

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Articles in this newsletter are meant to be informative, enlightening and helpful to you. While all information contained herein is meant to be completely factual, it is always subject to change. Benefits may not be available in all membership levels. For more information or to upgrade your membership, please call 800.387.9027.