The new coronavirus is having a devastating impact on the daily lives of people around the world. In the space of a few weeks, the virus has brought the global economy to its knees, forcing it to adapt to lockdown measures.
Some sectors are operating at full capacity, whilst others are struggling to keep their heads above water. This slowdown in activity could have serious long-term consequences for local shops. Faced with the crisis, our local producers are taking action.
E-commerce: the survivor of the lockdown
E-commerce has undeniably emerged as the major survivor of this unprecedented crisis, particularly when it comes to essential goods. At present, these items are doing a roaring trade online. The giants of e-commerce and mass retail are seeing a surge in sales.
But how are our local shops faring? Many are struggling to reconcile the lockdown with running their businesses. Shopkeepers who have not yet made the switch to digital are worried. “How can I sell my products when my shop is closed and my customers are confined to their homes?” Now more than ever, digital channels represent the only way to maintain a connection with their customers.
The local reflex
Put off by the queues at the entrances to large supermarkets, consumers are tending to turn to small local producers. The neighbourhood butcher, the local farm, the local start-up producing fresh fruit juices…
Is this the only solution? To turn to a channel that has so far remained impervious to the microbes that are shaking our economy to its core. Thanks to the incredible capabilities offered by the digital world, businesses have the tools they need to continue their activities, whether partially or in full.
Small producers are holding their own online
Some businesses were already riding the digital wave before the lockdown. Others chose to act at the very first warning sign, rolling out a range of initiatives to continue offering their services.
Online shops, social media, platforms dedicated to local supply chains, click-and-collect, home delivery… All whilst strictly adhering to the hygiene regulations in force. Their aim? Not only to do everything possible to ensure their businesses survive the Covid-19 crisis, but also to continue fighting for the relocation of production.
Staying close… from a distance
In these unprecedented times, let’s use every means at our disposal to (re)build strong ties and support businesses in difficulty.
Are you a retailer? Does your website allow you to start selling online? Is it designed to facilitate communication with your customers? Are you using all the channels and platforms at your disposal to stay in touch with your community? Make it a habit: think local AND digital!
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