News Summary
Myrtle Beach is experiencing a surge in its beachwear market with 56 shops catering to tourists, a significant increase from three in earlier years. Traditional stores like Gay Dolphin Gift Cove have evolved to offer trendy merchandise while competing with online retailers and larger chains. A recent survey revealed price variations among 15 stores for essential beach items, highlighting the challenges local retailers face. As competition grows, understanding consumer trends and maintaining diverse products is key for survival in this bustling market.
Myrtle Beach is witnessing a bustling beachwear market, with a notable increase in the number of souvenir stores catering to its influx of tourists. Currently, the coastal city boasts 56 beachwear shops, a dramatic rise from the mere three that existed in its early days. The competition is intense as local shops strive to maintain profitability amidst rising challenges from both local and national retailers.
The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, a family-owned establishment that has been a staple in downtown Myrtle Beach since 1946, serves as a prime example. With a rich history of attracting visitors through exotic animals in the 1950s and 60s, the store has adapted over the years to focus on trendy merchandise that remains in high demand. The ownership indicates a commitment to variety, sourcing unique products such as shell decor and distinctive gifts rather than solely traditional beachwear.
Among the prevalent beach items, essentials such as umbrellas, toys, and towels continue to attract steady consumer interest. However, the current retail landscape has made achieving profitability increasingly difficult. The saturation of beachwear stores, coupled with the rise of online shopping, poses significant challenges for local retailers.
A recent analysis of the local beachwear market revealed marked price discrepancies across different stores. The survey, which compared prices for three key products—6-foot beach umbrellas, 30-inch by 60-inch printed towels, and souvenir t-shirts—across 15 different stores, identified 5.99 Outfitters as the most affordable option with a total of $21.97. Conversely, USA Resortwear was noted as the most expensive, with a total of $51.97 for the same items.
The average price for a 6-foot beach umbrella came to approximately $14.19, while the average for printed towels was around $15.59. In terms of souvenir t-shirts, customers could expect to pay about $10.92, with a price range of $5.99 to $19.99 depending on the store.
Other players in the Myrtle Beach beachwear market include Eagles Beachwear, Breeza Beachwear, Bargain Beachwear, and a number of others that contribute to the competitive environment. As the market evolves, many traditional mom-and-pop stores are transitioning into larger chains, further intensifying competition.
Additionally, national retailers such as CVS and Walgreens are stepping into the beachwear segment, posing a threat to the survival of local shops. This shift has raised questions about the long-term viability of the many beachwear stores in Myrtle Beach. Concerns have been expressed regarding the impact of impulse buying on sales, with local retailers grappling not only with competition but also with negative perceptions within the community.
As Myrtle Beach continues to attract millions of visitors each year, the beachwear market remains a focal point for both businesses and tourists. Understanding consumer trends and maintaining a diverse inventory is crucial for local retailers aiming to thrive in this saturated market. The landscape is marked by a rich history, ongoing competition, and the evolving preferences of beachgoers who seek unique shopping experiences.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Retailers Brace for Tariff Impacts
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: Article 305081501
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- My Horry News: Eagles Beachwear
- Google Search: Beachwear Market Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Online: Article 289702239
- Google Scholar: Beachwear Retail Competition
- Post and Courier: Beachwear Industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach Tourism
- WPDE: Beachwear Store Fire
- Google News: Myrtle Beach Beachwear
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
