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Nose for News by Sarah Stultz

 

I have been impressed in the last few weeks to see the ingenuity of our local businesses as they figure out their path as a result of changes that have taken place because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

I’ve seen businesses that have brought on new products, businesses that are offering shipping for their customers and businesses that are offering other changes to help make the customer experience the most convenient as possible.

Many businesses have been forced to be creative in how they choose to move forward at this time and keep their loyal customers close while at the same time attempt to attract new ones.

On Saturday, I went to purchase the paint for my son’s room, and when I arrived  at the store, I soon realized the physical store was only open to employees. I looked out my front windshield to see signs posted (that were readable from the car) that said people could call in their order and that the employees would bring it out to you.

I knew this type of system was available for other types of businesses such as restaurants but didn’t realize it was happening with that type of store.

I called the number and was greeted by a friendly voice on the other end who took my order and answered all of my questions — just as if I were in the store physically. I also paid for my order over the phone.

In a matter of only a few minutes, the paint was ready, and she brought it out to the car, along with a few other supplies I had requested.

“Wow, that was easy,” I remember thinking, and I didn’t even have to worry about chasing my son around the store.

It gave me a little bit of a glimpse into the rave reviews I have read about curbside pickup for groceries, which now I’m thinking I might need to consider.

If it goes anywhere near as smoothly as it did picking up my painting supplies, it might become a new way of life for me — even after all this COVID-19 stuff has passed.

Not to mention it could help reduce impulse buying, help me follow a meal plan and help me better stick to healthier choices.

I’m not surprised to see all these great new business ideas during this time from both large and small businesses. I have always felt Albert Lea and Freeborn County has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and at this time that is becoming especially clear.

Though it has been many times already in the last few weeks, I urge you to continue to support our community’s small businesses.

Remember, these are your friends and neighbors, and we owe it to them to support them if we can.

Sarah Stultz is the managing editor. Her column appears every Wednesday.