Things are tough in St. Pete right now. Everyone is feeling the pressure and anxiety of COVID-19’s presence in the area. Local businesses are especially facing hardships right now. As of 3/18, all bars have closed their doors for 30 days, and almost every other local shop has dropped to 50% capacity and must close at the 9PM last call. These precautions are necessary for general health and wellbeing, but are also affecting the economy. So the question is now: what can we do to support our businesses during this time? We’ve put together a list of some of the ways you can help out (to be updated as new changes occur!). Let’s stick together – we can and will get through this!
For All Local Businesses
Some businesses are currently closed, while others are operating at limited capacity or moving to pickup/delivery options. All of these businesses can benefit from these!
Leave good reviews.
In such a digital time, many visitors (and even locals!) turn to platforms like Yelp or Google Reviews to decide on which businesses to visit. Leaving positive reviews for your favorite places helps drive traffic and helpful attention their way, both now and after everything reopens.
Purchase gift certificates.
Buying gift cards and certificates now not only allows you to help support local businesses now, but gives you the perfect excuse to go out and have fun once things reopen! Give your favorite place a call and see if you can purchase a certificate for a later date.
Give them a shout-out!
Social media is a big part of our lives nowadays. With our current situation, it’s become a vital tool in keeping things going! Spread the word about how amazing the owner of a great restaurant is or how delicious someone’s coffee tastes.
For Limited Capacity Local Businesses
All publicly open businesses are currently reduced to half their normal capacity, and are also affected by people social distancing and self isolating. These options (in addition to those previously mentioned) can help balance this out!
Pick up merchandise.
This goes for clothing, gifts, food, and just about anything else! See if your favorite shops offer curbside pickup or to-go options during this time. Call ahead or order online, if available.
Get it delivered.
Don’t want to leave your house? No problem! Get your goods delivered. Platforms like UberEats have temporarily waived delivery fees for affected areas, so don’t hesitate to indulge in some delicious food from your favorite restaurant. Shops like Daddy Kool Records and Book and Bottle are temporarily offering free local shipping/delivery for orders.
We know things are hard right now, but this, too, shall pass. Let’s work together to stay strong and support each other (from a distance, of course)! Be well and stay healthy!
P.S. If you haven’t already, share your favorite local businesses with us on Instagram (@beachdrivespfl) so we can shout them out and share their temporary changes with our followers! Be sure to check out our COVID-19 and Businesses highlight while you’re there.
