On the Way to Recovery: Businesses that Suffered During the Pandemic

 

The pandemic caused many businesses to suffer as they could not serve customers and had to make significant adjustments. Restaurants, for example, had to close their doors as government agencies advised people not to gather in groups. It also substantially impacted several industries where companies got forced to shut down. The closure of these businesses resulted in the loss of jobs and income for many people.

However, there are a few sectors that completely lost their services. They primarily relied on physical interaction with people, leading to their downfall. The good news is that some of these businesses are now on the road to recovery. With the help of technology, they have been able to find ways to adapt and safely serve customers. Here are some of those sectors on the way to recovery.

Dental Clinics

Dental clinics were one of the first businesses to close down when the pandemic started. It was due to the highly contagious nature of the virus and the close contact required during dental procedures. However, many clinics have now reopened with enhanced safety protocols in place. These include increased sanitation, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), and limiting the number of patients per day.

If there were necessary visits, dental clinics also made significant adjustments to their gears and supplies. The Herbst® appliance is an innovation where patients no longer need multiple appointments to improve jaw functionality.

Some clinics are even offering virtual consultations to help people assess their oral health without coming into the clinic. It is an excellent option for those hesitant to schedule an appointment due to the pandemic.

Banks

The pandemic also impacted the banking sector as the government advised people to limit their exposure to public places. It led to a decrease in foot traffic at branches, and some banks had to close temporarily.

Banks are now reopened with limited capacity to maintain social distancing protocols. They have also installed plexiglass barriers and sanitization stations for the safety of their employees and customers.

Many people are still hesitant to go into a bank, so online and mobile banking services have become even more popular. Banks offer more incentives for people to use these services as they are less costly.

It is essential to note that the pandemic has accelerated the digital banking trend, which was already on the rise pre-pandemic.

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores were one of the few businesses that remained open during the pandemic as people still needed to buy food. However, they had to make significant changes to their operations to ensure the safety of their employees and customers.

These changes included installing plexiglass barriers at checkouts, increasing sanitation efforts, and changing how customers move through the store. For example, some stores are now using one-way aisles to minimize contact between people.

Grocery store chains have also introduced contactless payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay to limit exposure to germs. Some stores are even offering curbside pickup and delivery services to reduce contact further.

The pandemic has changed the way we shop for groceries, and many of these changes are here to stay.

Mental Health Therapy

Mental health therapy was one of the sectors that took the biggest hit when the pandemic started. Treatment requires in-person contact, which is impossible when people need to practice social distancing.

However, many therapists have now shifted to online sessions using video conferencing tools like Zoom and Skype. It has allowed them to safely continue serving their patients while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

Some therapists are even offering sliding-scale fees or pro bono services to help those struggling financially during the pandemic.

It is essential to note that the pandemic has also led to increased demand for mental health services. That's because people struggle with anxiety and stress due to uncertain times.

Restaurants

The pandemic has been devastating for the restaurant industry as dine-in service is impossible when people need to practice social distancing. Many restaurants have had to close their doors temporarily, and some have even permanently shuttered.

However, some restaurants have been able to stay afloat by pivoting to takeout and delivery only. Others have started offering meal kits and cooking classes to generate revenue.

Many restaurants are also getting creative with how they use their space. For example, some are setting up outdoor dining areas, and others are repurposing their kitchens to function as grocery stores.

Conclusion

The pandemic has been tough on businesses, but many find ways to adapt and even thrive. It is essential to remember that things will eventually return to normal, and the companies that survive the pandemic will be even more vital for it. In the meantime, we can all support these businesses by patronizing them when possible.