Q. As a consumer how do I and my family support small business and our community during these difficult times?
A. We don’t know how long COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation, with its shutdowns and “social distancing,” will last, but small businesses need your support to make it through these uncertain times. Here are the Better Business Bureau’s tips on how everyone can support small businesses – with or without spending money.
This crisis is affecting all types of small business. This includes places you use every day, such as your local coffee shop or favorite lunch place, but also businesses that might not immediately come to mind. The closures and cancellations hurt services like home improvement contractors, daycare providers, dry cleaners, and car mechanics, as well as healthcare business, such as your dentist or chiropractor. Even business-to-business fields, such as the graphic designer who designs your office’s brochures or the accounting firm who does the books, are feeling the impact.
By closing their doors temporarily, small businesses are helping to keep their customers and employees healthy. But the loss of income makes it tough to cover on-going expenses like rent and salaries. These tips help ensure your favorite businesses have the cash they need to make it through these lean times.
* Buy a gift card for later: Many small businesses that have had to close are offering gift certificates at discounted rates for when they open back up. Look on business’s websites and social accounts.