More Americans plan to celebrate Fourth

Even in the midst of an economic downturn, more Americans plan to show their patriotism on Independence Day this year than last year.

The National Retail Federation's 2009 Independence Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey found that 62.6 percent of Americans will host or attend a cookout, barbecue or picnic, compared with 61.2 percent in 2008.

The survey also found that more people will attend their local fireworks or community celebration (42.7 percent vs. 40.2 percent in 2008).

Other popular celebrations include attending a parade (11.5 percent) or traveling/taking a vacation (11.4 percent).

Consumers already own 121 million American flags, 89 million have patriotic apparel, 58 million own decorations and 25 million have bumper stickers or car decals, according to the survey conducted by BIGresearch.

Retailers should be ready for the 14 percent of consumers who plan to purchase additional patriotic merchandise.

Though gas prices are still far below last year's levels, a recent uptick in costs is causing some Americans to reconsider their plans.

The survey found 44.5 percent of Americans will change their holiday plans because of higher gas prices.

Chicken chain

The first of four new Bojangles restaurants over the next two years will open Friday at 740 Folly Road on James Island.

The chicken restaurant, owned by Kevin Archer of K-Bo Inc. of Charlotte, will have between 40 and 50 employees and will be the 19th store in Archer's chain.

Most of the others are in the Greater Charlotte area.

Archer plans to open another diner this fall at U.S. Highway 17 and Main Road and is studying two sites in Mount Pleasant, according to Ellis Grossman, director of operations for the Charleston market.

New 'do

West Ashley has a new hair salon. Megan Strickland Epting has opened Fix Salon Studio at 6 Daniel St. in the Avondale area. The Paul Mitchell salon is open Tuesday through Saturday.

In the know? Do you know of a retail business that is opening or closing? Reach Warren Wise at 937-5524 or wwise@postandcourier.com.