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Local Business Booms As Pirates Do Well

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- There's lots of excitement for the Pirates series with the Cardinals, and when the Pirates win, more than just the team benefits.

A winning season means big money for local businesses.

Atria's started its PNC Park location when the park opened 13 seasons ago. Business has always been good, but Jack "Johnny Angel" Hunt from Atria's says, "The last couple of years, as you know, whenever things aren't going fantastically, people don't come out as often. But this year, I mean, it is phenomenal!"

He says he's seen a lot more fans from opposing teams traveling to Pittsburgh to see a game.

Carl Axelson is a Cardinals fan who brought his family here for the first time.

"Right now we love it!" said Axelson. "Downtown is absolutely gorgeous. I'm actually impressed."

Visit Pittsburgh says last year on average, each Pirates game brought $2.1 million into the city.

Of course, that number is expected to jump this season. That includes money brought into restaurants, hotels and retail outlets.

Karen Weil, general manager at Soho, says winning games is the right formula for business success.

"It makes a big difference," said Weir. "The fans are enthusiastic. Therefore, the fans wants to come out and see the Pirates."

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