As more people practice social distancing across the country, small businesses will feel the impact. Already, restaurants around the country have closed indefinitely due to dwindling business associated with the pandemic. Long Beach is especially supportive of local businesses, from restaurants to farmers’ markets to retail locations across the city. But, with the increased caution around public spaces, how can we continue to support local businesses?
Local businesses are already being hugely impacted by social distancing, but so are their employees. Long Beach’s restaurant and bar scene is very vibrant. However, today many servers, barbacks, and managers are feeling anxious as they wonder when they might expect their next paycheck. Many companies are working diligently to come up with a plan for financial aid. Yet, the only way to keep these workers afloat is to patronize their places of business.
As we all take necessary precautions, supporting our local businesses can seem daunting. After all, you probably don’t want to venture out to the physical locations. Don’t worry! There are still plenty of ways to continue supporting local businesses.
1. Order Ahead to Avoid Waiting in Line
Many of the local businesses in Long Beach are still open and need your support. While out running errands, consider ordering ahead if the option is available. It’ll save you time waiting in public spaces, and gives you the opportunity to show your support to your favorite businesses during a tough time.
2. Focus on Purchasing Local Produce
Local farmers will also inevitably feel the impact of the virus and the panic that’s ensued. If you’re heading to a market, fill the freezer with local proteins. Or, stock up on the root vegetables that are plentiful this time of year and will keep a while.
3. Buy Now to Enjoy Later
Much like produce, you can also support local businesses by getting carry-out meals to enjoy in the comfort of your home. Even, then you still have two options. You eat the meal while it’s still hot or freeze it for later. It’s also a great time to patronize neighborhood restaurants and establishments as there may be less foot traffic than larger restaurants and stores. Most food items can also be frozen to enjoy later, which should be a consideration as many are stockpiling food and other items.
4. Consider Delivery
Many local restaurants are open for business specifically for delivery purposes. Food and grocery delivery companies like DoorDash, Grub Hub, Amazon Fresh, and Postmates are adding measures to keep both their drivers and their customers safe right now. Many of these companies are even implementing procedures such as “touch-free delivery.” With this method, the customer can designate a place outside of their home for the delivery driver to leave their food. Therefore, avoiding any contact.
Long Beach Strong
During times like these, it is important that we all not only take care of ourselves but that we support our community as a whole. Over the course of the next few weeks, it is going to remain important to support these businesses that are dependent on support for survival. Though we cannot gather together, we can lift one another up, from a distance.
If you are considering buying or selling a home, but are having anxiety about the market – locally or federally – please contact us for more information. We are happy to help you through this difficult time.
Leave a Reply