Despite strong economic activity in Eaton County, businesses still feel the effects of inflation

• Eaton County’s economy is seeing positive growth, but population decline remains a focus area
• Despite the strong economy in the country, a company still feels the effects of inflation
• In the video, a business owner explains the impact of the economy on her business while an economic development group explains the county's strengths and weaknesses.

Former President Donald Trump is visiting Eaton County on Thursday to deliver a speech about the economy as local businesses continue to feel the effects of inflation.

Pam's Pantry has had a place in many pantries in Grand Ledge for 22 years. It's a business that owner Pam Redman started out of desperation.

“My husband had an accident at work and we had no income for two years and were about to lose everything,” Redman said.

PHOTO: PAM REDMAN, OWNER OF PAM'S PANTRY IN GRAND LEDGE, STANDS IN HER SHOP NEXT TO A VARIETY OF SPICES

Daniel Valle

Redman's humble blend of four spices has now grown to 140 varieties.

“Banana cream pie with cream cheese and Cool Whip,” Redman explained as she took a mix from a basket.

The popularity of her spices allowed her to showcase her products across the country and receive awards in places like Atlanta, Georgia.

Redman opened her shop on Bridge Street in 2017 after years of working from home. Redman's spices allow her to be part of family meals, whether she knows it or not.

“I love doing this,” Redman said. “We get to share in these special moments for other people.”

WATCH: TRUMP CAUSES HARRIS AND PROMISES DEPORTATION OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS DURING SPEECH IN HOWELL

Trump attacks Harris and promises to deport illegal immigrants during his speech in Howell

Business has been slow recently as construction work on the sidewalks has resulted in less customer traffic and therefore less sales.

“I'm seeing a decline in some sales,” Redman said. “A lot of tradespeople are struggling. People don't seem to have the money they need.”

These difficulties come at a time when Eaton County's economy is growing slowly, according to an analysis by the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP).

The county saw employment growth of 1.2%, about 3% below the national average, according to LEAP.

LEAP says 66% of people aged 16 and over also work, but adds that the population is declining.

The group says 709 people have left the country since 2018 and estimates that more than 1,400 people will leave by 2028.

LEAP President and CEO Bob Trezise wants to focus on this area.

“This will immediately lead to less tax revenue for all the services we love. Police [and] Fire [departments]Parks, streets,” says Trezise. “If there are no people, small businesses have no customers, the government has no tax revenue and schools have no full classrooms.”

Redman is confident that business will pick up as children return to school and the holidays approach.

Redman uses a mix of hope and positivity, along with a dash of perseverance, to keep going.

“When the going gets tough, it gets tough,” Redman said. “We've fought our whole lives and now we're here. Tomorrow is a new day.”

Want to see more local news? Visit the FOX47News Website.

Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.

Sign up for the newsletter which will be sent via email to your inbox.

Choose from these options: Neighborhood News, Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Headlines of the Day and Daily Forecasts.

Follow us on X

Like us on Facebook