Small businesses are chomping at the bit to reopen, but they know it must be done safely. McDonald’s Corporation said it best to their 14,000 US franchise owners in their 52-page dine-in reopening guide: “We ask that you remember – we only get one chance to do this the right way.”
When considering what is needed to welcome customers back, retail stores need to consult with local authorities. Planning in advance is critical. Not only will customers expect fully masked workers wearing gloves, but they also appreciate specially added touches to ensure customer comfort and safety.
Signage will be key. Telling customers that you are open and what you’ve done to make your business safe for them is critical.
Touchless sinks, towel dispensers and foot-operated door openers will cost money, as will acrylic shields to separate customers if necessary.
According to Mario Salazar, Starbucks store manager at the Juan Tabo and Montgomery location in Albuquerque, “We never closed, we only changed our business model from café/drive through to drive through only. Last week we changed our model to drive through and Grab and Go. We have opened our café for customers to come in and get their favorite drink.”
According to Salazar, Starbucks provided the tools needed to operate as safely as possible. “We have re-trained all partners on current and new processes to maintain a safe working environment. As a company we are doing things that go above the recommendation of our health department.”
At many businesses, including Sandia National Laboratories, employees must take their temperature and take a small survey to make sure they are healthy for work.
“We are doing our best to bring back some normalcy,” says Salazar.
