Just days before the first FIFA World Cup matches, local businesses in South Florida are questioning whether the expected economic impact will become a reality.
FIFA estimates the seven games played in the area could generate $1.3 billion in economic activity.
“Hopefully FIFA is going to bring us some movement, some people, some business,” said Jacqueline Moshe, who co-owns Miami Discount Center in downtown Miami with her husband, Dani Moshe. Dani Moshe joked about the sales potential: “Colombia is going to win. I’ve got to sell my shirts,” he added.
The expectations, however, are a serious matter for many. Daniel Cohen, who owns Sneek Peak luxury near Bayfront Park, is concerned about construction. Bayfront Park is set to be transformed into Fan Fest, expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors during the games. “We find that sometimes when people walk down Flagler, and they…
