At present, most of the states have issued “Stay-at-Home” orders. In order for businesses to stay operating, they have had to implement new operating procedures while protecting the health and welfare of their employees and customers. The following are some of the processes that companies are currently following.

• Communicate health & safety measures to the public - This includes standards for both employees and consumers.
• Offer “contactless” and “safe distancing” service - This includes in-store procedures, home delivery and curbside pickup.
• Leverage and expand all communication channels with consumers - This includes website chat, email, social media, and phone service.
• Innovate new product offerings - Many new unique product offers are being featured by companies including online yoga classes, virtual wine tasting, stimulus package meal deals, local farm produce boxes, virtual assistant for doing taxes, etc. See more examples.

It is anticipated that there will be a gradual reopening of the economy once we have reached a more manageable level of health safety. When the reopening opportunity comes for a business, they should consider some of the following.

• Create promotions and incentives to capture customer’s attention and sales.
• Follow safe distancing requirements and proper health safety standards.
• Communicate with customers in multiple media channels.

"Restricted distancing" will become the norm during this critical phase of a reopened economy. The work environment will change as companies will probably stagger work hours with employees coming in at different times of the day. Procedures at stores and restaurants will also change. Restaurants will place limits on their indoor dining (operating dining rooms at 50% capacity). Department stores will limit or prevent the "trying-on" of clothing, and some may continue their "no-returns" policy. Banks may continue to limit their "in-person" services. All of these policies will take into account the recommended health safety standards. Companies should plan for these new restrictions in advance.

Unfortunately, the possibility of a second wave may occur in the Fall. Companies should create contingency plans and be prepared for this to occur. The lessons learned during the "Stay-at-Home" phase should be reviewed and updated. This will help companies better prepare for any challenges that may occur in the Fall.

The end of the coronavirus will happen when a vaccine is readily available to the general population. Still, there will be permanent changes in consumer sentiment and purchasing patterns. Businesses that show flexibility and can adapt to these changes will come out of the pandemic stronger and more successful in the long run.