Right now, people from all walks of life are facing adversity due to the recent worldwide Coronavirus pandemic. Many industries are feeling the repercussions too. However, it is important to specifically recognize those smaller and mid-size businesses that are acutely impacted.
As strong supporters of the development and success of small businesses, my team and I encourage the concept of shopping local, but now it is more important than ever. The time to shop local is now, no matter how long this situation lasts. Whether you are out today, or in a month, please keep this in mind. The businesses that make your daily life so special – the ones that define your neighborhoods, workplaces and have created conveniences and memories for you: need YOUR help.
This is not to say that larger businesses are not struggling as well, they are. But their chances of recovering are much higher. Their employees will be impacted but hopefully these larger organizations utilize their resources to aid their people.
At a time like this, it is crucial that communities understand the economic impact that these more vulnerable business are facing because people are not going out. This is not to say that health advisories should be ignored or that people should go out in groups. However, when one is getting a food delivery, tip well, take that extra lunch at the local café when life returns to normal, pick up essentials at the neighborhood market whenever possible and buy gift cards now from your favorite shops, restaurants and the like. Be mindful that these folks are relying on you.
Collectively we can get through this crisis both from a public health standpoint but also economically too. It is your patronage this late spring and summer that will help these businesses to recover and enable them to still be standing a year from now. And it is your thoughtfulness right now that will make all of the difference to your favorite local spots.
By Chris Sinclair
Founder, The Anthem Group