From caterers to cowboy outfitters: Writers' strike hits Hollywood economy

Before Hollywood writers walked off the job in early May, Pam Elyea's prop house History for Hire filled an average of 53 requests per week for everything from period-appropriate cameras and luggage to camping gear and snow globes.

Weekly orders this year now average 26 as the strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) halted many film and TV productions, Elyea said. She estimates the revenue of the company, which she runs with her husband, has dropped 60% and it is falling $100,000 short of meeting monthly expenses.

"Even though there is a strike going on, it doesn't stop my staff's rent. It certainly doesn't stop my rent. It doesn't stop our utilities," Elyea said, adding "things are just so much more expensive since the pandemic."

Small businesses in Los Angeles and beyond are taking a hit from the strike. Florists, caterers, costume suppliers and others have seen orders dwindle as many are still recovering from disruptions caused by COVID-19.

It is unclear how long the work stoppage will last. No new talks are scheduled between major Hollywood studios and the writers, who are seeking higher pay and guardrails around the use of artificial intelligence.

The strike's impact would be magnified if the SAG-AFTRA actors union also goes on strike when its contract expires on Friday.