Plaza Fiesta Business Owners Struggle as Immigration Fears and Tariffs Hit Atlanta Community Hard

Jose Olague, who has operated a sportswear store at Plaza Fiesta in Brookhaven for over a decade, reports a significant decline in sales, estimating a drop of 40% to 60% year-over-year. This downturn follows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests in the area, which have left local residents fearful and less likely to engage in community activities, further affecting business. Other shop owners, like Frank Chavez, also report reduced sales and are adjusting operations amid ongoing economic uncertainties and potential tariff impacts.