COVID-19 has affected businesses locally and internationally. Technology and the devices we so heavily rely on is feeling the wrath of this health crisis as most products are made overseas and shipped here for our needs and use.
Marnics is one of these tech companies affected by this drastic change.
This week they posted on their social media pages, “There is nothing more important to us than the health, safety and respect of our staff and customers. We continue to diligently follow government and public health guidelines concerning our stores in Thunder Bay. Our priority is to support our staff and our customers during this time. We have decided to temporarily change our store hours and also introduce a free pick-up and delivery service for those staying at home.”
Effective March 17, Marnics store hours have changed with the Intercity and Victoria Avenue locations closing until April 25. The 910 Memorial Avenue location has limited hours, Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free pick-up and delivery service is available effective March 17.
Marnics Mobile are asking customers to message them through their Facebook or Instagram accounts to coordinate.
As the situation evolves, Marnics will be updating their pages daily, including giveaways that will hopefully bring some brightness and smiles during this weird time Thunder Bay, and the world, are experiencing.
The Chinese government instituted major travel restrictions, quarantines and other measures to tackle the outbreak. Whilst some of those restrictions have lifted, the effects can be felt all the way here in Thunder Bay.
Joseph Wenzell says prices have gone up 100 per cent and most things are on backorder. These delays on parts and units has had an effect on the small market, which rely on the replacement tech out of China.
How are products being affected?
Apple
According to Forbes, repair shops across the globe are struggling to keep afloat due to these shortages and backorders. Apple's next big launch for the iPhone 9, the smaller, budget-friendly device, has entered mass production but Apple has struggled with production issues related to the outbreak. Apple is spreading out production across new suppliers to speed up the process.
Samsung
Samsung is temporarily shifting its production from South Korea to Vietnam after a worker tested positive for COVID-19, according to Reuters. These production lines produce the S20 and Z Flip foldable phones.
Microsoft
Microsoft has predicted a hit to PC sales and has allowed their workers to work from home.
Until social distancing flattens the curve, Marnics is providing a way for customers to still enjoy their devices and possibly win something exciting while we stay home and enjoy what technology has given us, the opportunity to connect with our screens.
