Over the past many months, every industry has undoubtedly been effected in some way, shape, or form by forces stemming from the pandemic. From a declining workforce, to global supply chain issues, transportation freezes, and a whole slough of other chain reactions, one thing is for certain: Business owners must continue to adapt to this ever changing landscape in order to stay afloat. However, as we continue our chameleon like approach to finding a new norm, one must wonder what's on the horizon in the coming weeks, months, and years.
For us here at EKZO, well let's just say it's been quite the ride! Simultaneously losing all of our retail accounts as stores and boutiques were shut down was the first major obstacle that we had to overcome. Now, as boutiques are back, dining has resumed indoors, and the subtleties of a normal life slowly regain a pulse, behind the scenes things continue to spiral out of control.
If you haven't heard of what is happening at the Port of Long Beach, I highly suggest googling this right now. This atrocity is and will continue to effect American businesses, retailers, and consumers alike. Worse off, all this just as we began to slowly get back on our feet. Container ships continue to amass and queue in open water as the port struggles to intake and process all of the trillions of dollars in goods that wait patiently on their decks.
It is a fascinating logistical nightmare that has all sorts of underlying financial implications and consequences for a whole array of involved parties. Unfortunately, this paints a weary landscape for small business growth and prosperity. If boutiques can't stock their shelves with products, how can they sell enough to pay rent? If consumers can't find basic home good regularly, how much will the price of these items inflate? These and so many more questions should be at the forefront of everyone's mind as the pandemic may feel over in many ways, but in so many others it is still taking it's toll.
So for the next many months, it is important to spend smart. Support small businesses who've fought through this pandemic. Support your local boutiques who's livelihood depends on their local community. Bike to work if it is within reason, if not maybe look to share a ride with a coworker. And most of all, reduce, re-use, recycle, and put the livelihood of our planet at the forefront of your actions. Trust me, it's needed!
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