By Jove, Wisconsin Really Is Open For Business!

Despite having listed over 125 businesses that have closed and/or laid people off, there is one business that has thrived in the economic climate that Scott Walker and the Republicans have created in Fitzwalkerstan - pawn shops:

They come with tools and trinkets in hand, with TV-fueled dreams of cashing in or the simple desire to get a few bucks for gas and groceries. Driven by the still-struggling economy and highly watched cable shows, people increasingly are stopping at the growing number of Eau Claire pawn shops.

[...]

The economy is playing a big role too, as the owners of Eau Claire's newest pawn shop, Crossroads Pawn and Gun, 2221 S. Hastings Way, noted.

"We're seeing people you wouldn't expect need to be in a pawn shop are coming into a pawn shop," co-owner Brian Zinn said.

He is seeing contractors pawn their tools for a quick loan so they can gas up their vehicles to drive to the next job.

"Places where they used to have a line of credit, it's all cashed," said David Zinn, Brian's brother and partner in the store.

The two also see businessmen stop at the store to browse the merchandise, not wanting to pay full retail prices.

David Zinn's own work background tells a bit about the economy. He worked for 28 years as a drywall contractor but got out when the construction industry went into decline in recent years.

[...]

While a pawn shop brings different challenges than a retail store or restaurant, Olson said he became a pawnbroker because he believes he can help people unable to get a loan from a financial institution.

"You can't bring your golf clubs to RCU and get a loan for the weekend," Olson said.
Brian Zinn echoed that sentiment, saying he is seeing more people and businesses living "hand-to-mouth" than before the Great Recession.

"It's nice to be able to help people get out of a bind," he said.

I find it rather telling that the only business thriving in Fitzwalkerstan is one designed to thrive off of people who aren't thriving.