BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Victory is a feeling Vikings fans know well by now 11 wins so far this season. It turns out that when the team wins, local businesses win too.
Bill Murray, owner of the Corner Bar, says he sees the biggest spike in sales after wins over the Vikings.
“In the post games we do a lot more business and it takes a lot longer,” Murray said. “Unlike a loss or a crappy season, people come out and then just leave and go home.”
Stores selling Vikings merchandise are also feeling the positive impact and preparing for next Monday’s football game against the Chicago Bears.
Logan Harala manages Pro Image Sports at the Mall of America and says their revenue is closely tied to the Vikings’ success.
“Last year was a good test for that,” Harala said. “When Jefferson went down in the middle of the season and Kirk went down with an Achilles tendon, our sales dropped at that point.”
This year things are different.
“Over the last six to eight weeks, people have really gotten behind the team and it has increased our sales,” Harala said.
Viking superfan Terrell Alphonso says he has a lot of Viking merchandise on his holiday wish list.
“Mugs, hats, sweatshirts, sweaters. I need to buy an Addison jersey,” he said.
The Vikings’ whiteout game against the Bears starts on December 16 at 7 p.m.
Marielle Mohs
