The coronavirus has made it difficult for many to perform their jobs, but none have been hit quite as hard as small business owners catering to the local populace. Restaurants have had to close their doors and offer solely take-out options, hairdressers and salons have had to close indefinitely, and locally run shops have run out of ways to serve a needy community. While some of us are lucky enough to work from home, those who run a small business are struggling to make ends meet. As a result, many locations are already closing their doors for good.
After all, local businesses are the backbone of your community. It’s important to keep their doors open since it’s good for your city’s economic system.
Luckily, there are still ways to support locally-run businesses at this time. While taking care of your own needs is vital — after all, some citizens are completely out of a job — those who have extra funds have a number of options to support local businesses. Here are some of the best ways to support the small businesses in your area:
Order takeout options
Americans are used to eating out. In fact, dining out increased by 4% in 2019 alone. If you’re struggling over your stove for the seventh day in a row, feeling burnt-out might apply to more than just your recent attempt at stir fry. Put down the spoon and pick up your phone: more restaurants than ever have signed deals with takeout and delivery apps to get their fresh food to you.
Ordering food for delivery or pick-up is becoming an increasingly popular option for struggling restaurants. As long as you’re able to pay online, you will only have to interact with the person who gives you your food. Compared to going to a crowded grocery store, this is a far better option when you’re hungry.
Invest in gift certificates
Many nonessential businesses have closed for now, but that doesn’t mean their doors will stay shut forever. Help them reopen by supporting them right now! By buying gift certificates and gift cards online, you can support local employers while treating yourself to a special activity later on.
This also makes the perfect birthday gift or anniversary present. Buy your loved one a massage or invest in a gift certificate for a tattoo when this all blows over. Not only is this a thoughtful gift, but it will also help your community in the long-term.
Spread the word on social media
Many people are hunkering down for the next couple of weeks, but they might not know that these options are available. If you love supporting your local restaurants and businesses, try sharing their new hours on your social media pages. You can also share important information and updates as this pandemic goes on. This is the easiest thing you can do to help small businesses continue to thrive in the face of adversity.
Small businesses are the backbone of local towns and cities across the country. If you have the means to support these local businesses, don’t hesitate to lend them a helping hand.
