COVID Stories
Shell-shocked Businesses Respond with Grit, Determination
The COVID-19 pandemic has rocked businesses large and small in virtually every sector of the economy. The individual stories vary somewhat, but there are several common themes — lost revenue streams, struggles to make payroll and pay the bills, and large amounts of uncertainty about what the future holds. But there are other commonalities as well, including a willingness, born of necessity, to respond to this crisis — the worst situation any of these business owners have faced — with determination, imagination, and the will to find a way to get to the ‘other side.’ For this issue, BusinessWest talked with 10 business owners about what has happened since the pandemic arrived with brutal force three incredibly long months ago, and how they’re battling back. These are their COVID stories.
Zasco Productions
Event company works to pivot, position itself for the long term
Go Graphix
In a sign of the times, this company has pivoted into new products
Lenzy Dermatology
Practice owner says many patients still wary of returning to her office
TheToy Box
Shop owner finds ways to share joy at a time when it’s badly needed
Teddy Bear Pools
During peak season, this area fixture is making up for lost weeks
Main Street Hospitality
Hotel group continues to grow through an uncertain time
Lenny Underwood
For this photographer and sock maker, the pandemic is a developing story
Mercier Carpet
Pandemic poses challenges, opportunities for flooring company
Cuts Plus
Salon owner says he missed the relationships the most
Eastside Grill
Restaurant owner says reopening will be exciting, but scary, too
