Small businesses are the engines of the UK's economy, accounting for the majority of all private sector companies. None of them can escape the brutal challenges of the lockdown as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Independent, almost a fifth of the small businesses in the UK could go bust within the next four weeks, despite the tax relief, grants and loans pledged by the government. But hopes are not lost for all, some small businesses have tried to adapt to the current situation and implement changes that help keep their businesses operating, and even recovering faster in the future.

Respect the rule of social distancing

The reason for the social distancing rule is because COVID-19 is high transmissible from person-to-person. In northern Italy, there have been many unfortunate cases where one person infected a whole family community. As there is no vaccine or treatment for this virus at present, prevention is the key. All businesses have all implemented strict policies based on social distancing, such as the queueing system at every supermarket in the UK. Small businesses that are still operating have all adapted measurements based on social distancing.

Keep on advertising

Businesses that advertised during recessions in the past have always reported an increase in sales after the hard time passed. Many small businesses have chosen to cut out the marketing budget completely, but some have decided to carry on with the marketing efforts. Many family-run businesses have initiated community projects to support their communities and help people stay connected to their brands.

Buy now, enjoy it later

For the hair and beauty industry, the date for re-opening is still uncertain, yet many are already pining after their first appointments. Some hairdressers and beauty salons have offered the online option to 'buy now, enjoy it later'. This gives customers something to look forward to, and a chance for businesses to sustain themselves during the lockdown.

Offering click n' collect and delivery option

More than half of the restaurants in the UK are privately owned or family-run. People cannot dine out at the moment, and they also need a break from cooking at home every day. Many restaurants have started the click n' collect and delivery option, which allows people to still order via third-party apps and have their food delivered or ready for collections. Many small businesses have started to adapt to this system and offer their finishing products for customer collection.

This is an undeniably difficult time for all organisations around the world. With the UK's COVID-19 statistics improving, there are hopes that the next phases of lockdown could come sooner rather later. As small business owners, it is understandable that you are having a stressful time. Remember to stay calm and try all strategies that are suitable for your business, while obliging to the necessary safety measurements. For the rest of us, let's not hesitate to rally behind our local businesses as much as we can. Together, we can get through this.

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