Will COVID-19 rising numbers force restaurants to shut down again? If so, can the businesses survive?
The first wave of shutdowns was very tough on small businesses, particularly for restaurants. Will a second shutdown hurt the industry to the point of no return?
When the first shutdown was ordered, I saw two of my favorite small businesses close. It was sad to see, and if I felt horrible, I can’t imagine how the struggling business owners were going through!
One of the restaurants that closed was even featured on Guilty Eats, Don Arturo’s Cocina and Cantina. With COVID-19 numbers rising, is there a second wave of shutdowns? Here’s what we know.
Will restaurants shut down again?
For starters, it’s important to know that each state (sometimes even districts) handle COVID-19 differently. One state may shut down businesses completely while another only decreases the capacity of customers.
At the moment, however, there doesn’t seem like a shut down of any shape or form will occur. I have seen many businesses scale back on the number of customers allowed to dine-in.
Other noticeable changes include increasing outdoor dining and extending to-go and delivery hours. After the first wave, most restaurants, and even some fast-food chains, switched their menus, offering only select items — this seems to be happening again at some locations.
What new changes have you noticed in your local restaurants?
Recently, California issued a stay-at-home order, and New York closed down indoor dining, which is really hurting the industry that had only just recently re-opened.
PR Hacker shared some tips and data on how restaurants can stay competitive if we enter another lockdown.
- Communicate health and safety measures with customers.
- Offer more delivery and takeout options.
- Increase online marketing (foodies love a good deal these days!).
Remember to help out small businesses as much as you can. If you’re hungry, check out which small business restaurants are available instead of ordering from a major chain.