The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is having a negative impact on local businesses. Many are anticipating a significant drop in income over the next few weeks and some are even considering closing temporarily. (Which could also impact their workers' income.)
If you feel at all ill, please stay home. If you can, encourage your employees to work remotely and continue patronizing their favorite businesses.
We are getting reports from our restaurant members that reservations and meals served are dropping, in some casses dramatically. Also, many of their catering clients have cancelled large events at the last minute. Cancellations can have a severe and very negative effect on revenues. There are things you can do to help maintain income at your favorite place(s).
- 1. Buy a gift card online.
- 2. Order food to pick up or have it delivered.
- 3. Visit and have a meal. Restaurants are already among the cleanest retail environments you can find. Currently, our local restauranteurs are doubling down on their cleaning and sanitizing efforts to ensure their customers are safe and their staff is protected.
Likewise our retailers are seeing a decline in business. You can support them even if you do not want to shop in person. Go to your favorite local retailers' websites and buy a gift card that you can use later. Many local retailers also have online shopping portals. Order online and have your items delivered to your home or office. Many also offer a curbside pick-up srvice. Order and pay in advnace and pick your item up at the curb.
Publishers Weekly listed some things that can be done to support independent booksellers. A lot of these sugestions are true of every retailer (not just Vroman's and Whitmore Rare Books). https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/columns-and-blogs/soapbox/article/82668-10-ways-to-support-your-indie-bookstore-through-coronavirus-and-beyond.html
Also seeing a drop in business are fitness and yoga studios. If you can purchase future sessions, reserve for a time in the future or buy that gift card. Fitness and yoga studios deal very closely with clients and are working hard to maintain a safe and healthy environment. If you are comfortable visiting (yes, it is safe) please do.
Many of our small business members are very concerned that a prolonged period with little or no income could be devastating for them. As we hear information or become aware of potential resources, we will make that information available.
If you have immediate needs, we may be able to find resources to help. Please contact us at the Chamber.
If you have ideas on how the Chamber can help, or how policy changes could help your business (or someone else's) survive please let me know at paul@pasadena-chamber.org.