Small Business Resilience During the Pandemic
Amidst the rising unemployment numbers, business closures, and economic turmoil brought on by COVID-19, each statistic represents a personal story. At The Balance, we are committed to sharing these stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. One such story is that of Gina Schaefer, owner of multiple ACE hardware stores in the D.C. area, whose business has navigated the challenges of the pandemic. In an interview with Schaefer, we explore how she has managed her operations and employees during these uncertain times.
Running 13 ACE stores across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, Schaefer's business was deemed essential during the pandemic. However, she faced the task of ensuring the safety of her employees and adapting to changes in consumer behavior. By giving managers greater autonomy and implementing new safety measures such as plexiglass shields, Schaefer's stores were able to continue serving their customers while prioritizing health and safety.
The transition to a more virtual and online business model presented its own set of challenges. With a surge in online sales, Schaefer had to quickly adapt her operations to meet the increased demand. Implementing curbside pickup and online communication channels, such as texting apps, required additional training for employees. Despite these challenges, Schaefer's stores were able to stay open and provide essential goods to their customers.
As the pandemic continues to impact businesses across the country, Schaefer reflects on the lessons learned and looks towards the future with optimism. By adapting to the changing landscape of consumer behavior and implementing new safety measures, her business has weathered the storm. Looking ahead to 2021, Schaefer remains hopeful that her stores will continue to thrive and serve their loyal customers.
Through the challenges of the pandemic, small businesses like Schaefer's have demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. As communities come together to support local businesses, the importance of sharing knowledge and resources becomes more apparent. Schaefer's story is just one example of the strength and perseverance shown by small business owners during these challenging times.
