Portland, Oregon — Recent protests in Portland are unexpectedly benefitting downtown businesses, with some local establishments experiencing increased foot traffic and sales. Despite past concerns over protests and unrest, food cart owners and pub operators are now embracing the crowds, seeing them as an opportunity to revitalize the area.
What Happened
Portland has seen a resurgence of protests, with the most recent demonstration held on August 2, 2025. However, this time, the protests are being met with unexpected support from local businesses. Food cart pods like Midtown Beer Garden and popular spots like Kells Irish Pub are witnessing an uptick in customers, who flock to the area to show their support for the protests and enjoy the vibrant downtown scene.
Lanie Kali, community manager at Midtown Beer Garden, shared that local food cart owners are excited when protests happen. She explained that during past protests, thousands gathered in downtown, and many stuck around to dine. “It’s a banner day for food cart owners,” she said, explaining how the protest crowds helped boost sales and foster community engagement.
Who Is Involved
Business owners, including Lanie Kali and Gerard McAleese, have spoken positively about how the protests have helped bring people back to downtown Portland. McAleese, the owner of Kells Irish Pub, noted that the protests have brought people who hadn’t visited the area in years, leading to increased business at his establishment. McAleese compared the current protest atmosphere to earlier protests, saying that things have changed for the better, with a more controlled environment allowing protests to proceed without destruction.
However, not all businesses are experiencing the same boost. Powell’s Books, a well-known Portland bookstore, reported a noticeable drop in sales during protests, with casual visitors avoiding the downtown area due to crowds, road closures, or safety concerns. Jeremy Solly, the chief marketing officer for Powell’s, shared that they saw a 10-20% decrease in business compared to regular days.
Background or Timeline
Protests in Portland have a complex history, with intense demonstrations occurring during the early months of the pandemic and continuing through the past few years. In 2020 and 2021, the city witnessed widespread destruction and unrest, which led to criticism of city officials for allowing such damage to public and private property. However, this year, the tone of protests has shifted, with many local businesses seeing the events as a positive influence in drawing crowds and bringing life back to downtown.
Protests have become a focal point in a city that has struggled with economic challenges, including rising homelessness and vacancy rates in commercial properties. However, despite these challenges, protests have been credited with revitalizing downtown areas by attracting visitors and increasing community engagement.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The reaction to the protests has been mixed. While business owners like Kali and McAleese are optimistic about the benefits, many Portland residents are still reflecting on the 2020-2021 protests, with some expressing concerns about public safety. Social media users have voiced opinions on the protests, with some criticizing the damages caused in past years, while others defend the protests as necessary for free speech and political expression.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
As Portland continues to host protests, local authorities and businesses are adjusting to the new reality. The Portland Police Bureau has worked to improve safety protocols, and both the city and local businesses are hopeful that continued events will help bring people back to the city. Many local business owners see the protests as part of a broader effort to rebuild downtown and increase foot traffic in an area that was once struggling to recover from the pandemic.
Kali, McAleese, and others remain hopeful that Portland’s resurgence will continue, with more festivals, events, and activities being planned for the upcoming year. They also believe that the protests, while controversial, will continue to help bring life to downtown, encouraging a sense of community and bringing people from all walks of life together.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
