THUNDER BAY – The president of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see the province allowing some retailers start to reopen over the next few days.
It’s great news for the local economy, Charla Robinson said.
On Wednesday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a staggered return for some businesses, starting with nurseries and greenhouses, which were given the OK to resume in-store business, with restrictions, on Thursday.
Hardware stores get the green light on Friday, and by Monday, most retailers with a street-side storefront will also be permitted to resume operation, though the latter will be restricted to curbside pick-up only.
Robinson said it’s also a positive step for consumers, who may get a more hands-on approach in hardware stores and nurseries.
“It’s really hard to buy some of those things online,” Robinson said.
“I think some of these businesses really do have to be able to see it physically and touch it physically. And we know the same rules will apply as we have right now in grocery stores. So it’s not like you’re going to be 500 people in one aisle.”
Grocery stores have limited the number of people allowed inside at any given time, with customers getting used to standing in line for a few minutes before being given the OK to enter.
Some stores have also laid down arrows on the floor directing traffic and ensuring physical distancing takes place for the protection of staff and customers alike.
“It will be a little extra work for these businesses to get going, but it’s so important they don’t lose the whole season of stuff they’ve been growing since January,” Robinson said.
While many businesses are prepared to restart, Robison said others may need a little more time, adding they’ve been providing advice to Chamber members who have asked about how to go about setting up for the new economy.
Robinson said she’s also reached out to the Thunder Bay District Health Unit to discuss the potential for an online seminar to help answer any questions entrepreneurs might have about what they need to do to meet reopening requirements.
“Working with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the (Canadian Federation of Independent Business), we’ve put together a business recovery network website that has a whole load of information,” Robinson said.
The Restaurant Council, for example, has put together information specific to that industry.
“We’re trying to get that information out to our members. And of course, always, people are phoning us and asking us, ‘What do we do,’ and ‘How does this work?’ We’re doing seminars and starting to plan into what they need to know, not for today, but what they need to know for tomorrow.”
