Given recent events, the global community has its full attention focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, and rightly so. It has affected every part of our lives from our work, to our health practices, and especially the global economy. However, it is important to address the very real effect it has had on our community and especially on our local business.
Due to responsible self-isolating and social distancing practices, businesses in our community are already experiencing hardships. However, every savvy entrepreneur will tell you that during crisis times like these, adaptation is a must. This is why, businesses like Shopper’s Drug Mart and Brenda’s Cozy Cafe, are doing things a bit differently to help better serve the community.
“I’ve been in this business for 36 years now, and I’ve never seen anything like this. But we’re taking it day-by-day.”
On top of improving and refining their store’s hygiene practices, Brad and Lena Snodgrass, co-owners of Shopper’s Drug Mart, are adding services to change how the community accesses them.
“The health and safety of our customers and our staff are our number one priority.” said Brad Snodgrass. “We are providing a free delivery service for prescribed medication for individuals who cannot come into the store or are not comfortable with doing so. There will also be screening done on patients for symptoms before sitting down with them.”
Snodgrass also stated that the first two hours of the day will be prioritized for seniors and the immune-compromised. It will give them a chance to access the store, with limited crowds and full stocks, after it has been freshly cleaned. Brad & Lena Snodgrass have also continued to offer 20% off for seniors on Thursdays.
Brenda Brinson, at Brenda’s Cozy Cafe, is experiencing limited traffic to her dining room, but that isn’t stopping her from tackling this challenge. Brinson will be leaning on her online ordering system that can be accessed through her Facebook page. The food ordered through this system can be picked up at her location but Binson will also be launching a delivery service later this week.
“This will help serve a lot of people in the community, from young families to single parents, to the immune comprised,” says Brinson. “Long term we are looking to create a traveling meal service that will bring full meals to community members in need.” Brenda’s Cozy Cafe has amped up sanitation by limiting public access to salt and pepper shakers and cleaning the debit machine between transactions.
“I’ve been in this business for 36 years now, and I’ve never seen anything like this.” added Brinson. “But we’re taking it day-by-day.”
Stacey Benjamin, Executive Director of The Stettler Board of Trade said "Our local businesses will need support now more than ever. It’s important to realize that many restaurants are still open providing take out and delivery. There are some businesses open condensed hours and others even offer online shopping as well. We will be here to support our business community through the COVID-19 pandemic with resources for our business owners. As supports are being announced we will be sharing and updating our website, social media and newsletters. We are asking businesses to keep us informed of changes to your business and what you might need. Our community is strong and resilient, we will recover.”
Though tough times are here many local businesses are reporting that Stettler is a strong community and they feel confident that things will turn around. With our businesses adapting to new challenges and our community moving in patience and understanding, Stettler businesses will endure.
Resources:
StettlerLocal.com has a webpage for businesses to provide their operational changes. This information will displayed on the website, social media channels and in their weekly e-news that is delivered on Wednesdays.
Check the latest business updates here:
If you are a business, please submit your changes in operations here: