Since the beginning of the 2012 fiscal year Houston County has seen higher sales tax numbers.

Now, Dothan merchants are hoping for the same good news.

The “Spotlight on Business Expo” gives local businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services.

Lunch time at Red Elephant Pizza & Grill in Dothan is nothing short of a rush.

It's only been open two years, but manager Carl McNeal says business has been steady, but he thinks there's more marketing that could be done.

“We want to re-introduce ourselves. I'd like to see at least 15% more growth,” said McNeal.

But with the way the economy is going…

“If we can see 10% that would be great, we want to see some growth in the business,” said McNeal.

He says growth is the key to success.

With several restaurants to choose from competition is steep.

So, McNeal is adding new items to the menu in hopes people will spend a little more at his establishment.

“We have to keep up with the pace. We'll take what we can get, because it's hard in the economy right now,” said McNeal.

Rituals Day Spa in Dothan has been open 4-months and similar to Red Elephant, the goal is to expand the business.

"We're still trying to get our books full and show people in Dothan what services we offer," said manager Hannah Loftin.

Loftin heard about Houston County's sales tax numbers.

They've gone up more than 3% since the beginning of the 2012 fiscal year.

She's crossing her fingers Dothan will have the same increase.

But history has taught her to be cautiously optimistic.

“We are accommodating those customers who might be spending more money, but they can't go out of town. We're providing tax relief packages,” said Loftin.

And in those packages, she's offering customer discounts.

Although those will cut into her profit margin, Loftin hopes those deals will keep customers coming back.

"Maybe they will share how relaxing the services are and refer some of their friends to us."

This is the 21st Annual Spotlight on Businesses hosted by the Dothan-Area Chamber of Commerce.