The Canadian Federation of Independent Business has found there are a number of concerns still plaguing small businesses as they prepare to open.
In a survey of small business owners, physical distancing topped the list. Keeping up with cleaning came in second with 55 per cent. Making customers feel comfortable and knowing what the rules are were ranked a close third and fourth and finally access to PPE.
More than three quarters of those surveyed, would prefer that governments create general guidelines rather than prescriptive rules for how businesses should operate upon reopening.
Three-quarters say it is critical to make more sales soon to survive and be less reliant on government subsidies.
CFIB has a number of resources available for businesses to help transition to a new normal, including:
- A “We’re Open” sign with information for customers to keep everyone safe that can be customized and links to provincial guidelines at fib.ca/COVID19
- A new “PPEs for SMEs” Facebook group where business owners who need PPEs can find other business owners who are selling it
- One-on-one help from CFIB’s Business Helpline to help with HR and other issues, temporarily available free of charge to any small business owner in the country who needs it
