New Kids on the Block: Opening a New Business During a Global Pandemic
Some Central Geelong entrepreneurs have shown courage by opening a new business amid a global pandemic. Some of Central Geelong’s newest entrepreneurs were on their way to opening their own businesses when the coronavirus epidemic hit. They have now had to adapt to the new trading conditions and restrictions that were imposed to keep the community safe and reduce the spread of the virus.
The traditional launch event to celebrate openings with family, friends, supporters and the local media has been adapted or shelved. Many new employees were excited to start work but have had to postpone their start date or train staff on new service and delivery methods.
- A Natural Bunch’s new store opened in James St. on the 2nd of April when most businesses around it were closed. The store opened on 2 April with a contactless system and online ordering for customers. This was due to the reduced traffic caused by the coronavirus. The store offers DIY Terrarium Kits, potted colours and a variety of bouquets to suit all occasions. They also worked hard to promote the business online leading up to Mother’s Day.
Central Geelong’s businesses rely heavily on the more than 30,000 people who live and work there. The number of people moving around the city has been drastically reduced due to social distancing and the shift of many Central Geelong office workers, including WorkSafe and TAC.
Many retailers and service providers chose to shut down their businesses to protect both their staff and customers. Others were forced to do so by the government. Businesses that already had a strong digital base were able to continue communicating with their customers and provide new ways of service to their customers during the pandemic.
It’s been tougher for a business to gain new customers in a crowded online market.
- Foreverness Bridal, which opened on Moorabool St. in February, has adapted its traditional bridal dress offerings to a Bridal live appointment – live streaming appointments in real time to family and friends. The Bridal Live Appointment allows other people to watch the bride try on every dress, chat with her and share their opinions. They can also be part of the excitement as the bride says “Yes-To-The Dress”.
The products and services that the new business had planned to provide have also had to be adapted. New restaurants and cafes that don’t have the option to dine in are forced to offer takeaway options, including online ordering and contactless payments, as well as delivery and pick-up options.
- Stacked Pancake and Dessert Bar opened in Yarra St. on 14 May. The store hasn’t yet been able to offer dine-in pancakes due to current restrictions. However, they have a wide range of cakes, desserts, macarons, cheesecakes, chocolate mousse and jar cakes available for collection. Cake orders received by 2 pm will be delivered the next day for free across Geelong. They have a wide variety of desserts and cakes and can’t wait to start serving pancakes.
- Parma Bar opened on 4 March, just next to Stacked. It offers take-out options and kerbside pickup or delivery for all your Parma needs.
Online platforms such as Teams, Teams, or Zoom are used to provide virtual consultations by new professional service businesses. Telehealth is a growing trend in health care. Telehealth allows providers to provide services such as physiotherapy, psychology and other healthcare needs at the clients’ homes.
Marketing plans that were once considered traditional have to be re-envisioned. Online promotions, including competitions and offers, have been adapted from in-store promotions. Social media and virtual word-of-mouth have become key factors for businesses that want to attract new customers.
- Pinot & Picasso offered small group gatherings for food, wine, and art classes – in-store. It was the ideal solution for birthdays or team-building events, as well as special occasions like bachelorette parties, baby showers, and other special events. They could never have imagined that in just a few short months, they would be offering online classes and Art Boxes containing all the materials needed for an online class to their customers’ homes. This option is a great way to continue the business even when restrictions are lifted and classes resume in-store.
Some retailers have had to modify their shop fittings to meet social distancing requirements and hygiene standards. They now provide doorway service, limit the number of customers and require hand sanitiser for every customer who enters the premises. Many registers and reception desks have counter shields installed to protect staff and customers. Social distancing markers and counter shields are also now a regular fixture to help customers wait and receive service at a safe range. The use of contactless payments has grown significantly as some businesses have moved away from cash transactions.
During the coronavirus outbreak, the key for all businesses was to quickly adapt to the changing conditions. Cafes such as The Continental and ALMA offer a variety of grocery and produce hampers, while Cafe Go delivers meals across the region.
Follow the business you like on social media and buy their products or services. Follow and like their pages. Let them know about great products and services. Leave a review for other customers to find them.
It’s not only good for local businesses but also for you. Local businesses offer great customer service, you can get to know people working in or owning the business and they are also better for the environment because staying near home will reduce your carbon footprint. Local businesses bring energy, variety, and unique experiences to Central Geelong’s streets. This is good for all.
Shopping locally is now easier than ever. Download the Love Central Geelong app or visit www.centralgeelong.com.au/find for a full business directory of Central Geelong businesses and find up-to-date information about new businesses and businesses doing things differently.
The City of Greater Geelong Council has introduced free on- and off-street casual parking in Central Geelong until 30 June 2020 as a measure of support to help businesses and residents affected by the pandemic of coronavirus. There are still time limits.
https://www.centralgeelong.com.au/news/new-kids-on-the-block-opening-a-new-business-during-a-global-pandemic