We're a little down in sales here (approx 10% for the year). The worst was 4 weeks before, and 2 weeks after the election. It's been increasing steadily since then. We're optimistic about December - it's always been one of our best & so far so good.
It seemed to me like the economy troubles hit us a little later than others - but over the last few months a handful of stores in our region have closed up shop.
I have been running non-stop with the service & install end of things. Last week actually put one of my techs back on! Things break (we service all brands) no matter what the economy.
I'm optimistic about our store's future - we just won a local "Best Spa Store" award, and have made a profit this year. I think those of us who continue to work to create more total value for the customer are going to have the greatest odds of success.