In just under three months, we have watched many businesses temporarily close their store fronts and some shutter completely. But American hard work and ingenuity have shone through in this difficult time as medical PPE suppliers amped up production and marketing, apparel companies are stitching masks, and cosmetic and fragrance companies are now bottling hand sanitizer. Many companies have proven themselves to be quite nimble as they pivot and respond to new market demands despite new rules and regulations to keep employees safe.
Modifications like these have taken hold across industries. For example, did you ever think you would be entering a bank with a mask on? Surely banks never thought they would welcome masked individuals at the teller window! It’s amazing how in less than a few months it has become the “new normal.”
Sneeze guards and barriers were once largely exclusive to salad bars, but now these plexiglass shields and enclosures can be found at every hair salon, supermarket, and essential business. They will soon be found at all restaurants and retail establishments. It will be interesting to see what it’s like socializing once establishments like bars and coffee shops open indoor seating!
How about the adhesive labels that are now found on the floors of all public facilities to help occupants maintain a safe distance? Not only will many businesses rely on these floor signs as part of their health and safety protocol, but they will need to be replaced as they wear out from being walked over. Between these and many other new signs with the latest safety instructions, sign makers could be very busy for the foreseeable future.
They say, “It’s a dirty job, but someone’s got to do it!” Professional cleaners are taking that to heart and promoting their services to stores and offices as they anticipate re-opening. There won’t be a speck of dust anywhere after the frequent cleaning businesses are implementing in order to welcome the public back in!
While many businesses – and entire industries – have demonstrated creativity, ingenuity and compassion in the face of COVID-19, here’s to hoping we can all get back to work soon in a healthy, safe and secure manner. I know I am looking forward to the time when we can put terms like, “unprecedented times”, “new normal”, and “Corona” in the rear-view mirror.