How the pandemic has chang small businesses and brands

Pandemic: Consumers more concern than ever about social responsibility

Perhaps no business has felt the ravages of the pandemic more than small businesses. Many startups and local companies have had to temporarily close, lay off employees, use personal funds, or seek government assistance to survive. Some have clos permanently. It would be an understatement to say the business landscape has chang , but it’s important to acknowl ge that it’s not just who’s shopping, where they’re doing it or what they’re doing it for that’s different. Customer expectations have chang , too, and a business’s social responsibility is just as important as the quality of its product or service.

Customers are looking for ethical sourcing

In recent years, customers have express more interest in where their products come from. In response, brands like Everlane have made transparency a hallmark of their business. But now, customers don’t just want that from niche clothing brands; they want it from everyone.

The pandemic has left no country unscath , and people around the world share a common sadness and panic. Many of the countries most affect are those that source and produce goods for small bolivia phone number library businesses. Understanding the widespread impact of the pandemic, customers have begun to look back to ensure that the businesses they frequent are building supportive relationships with suppliers and not taking advantage of impoverish countries that have yet to recover. Are businesses aware of their suppliers’ challenges and offering them assistance? Or are they prioritizing profits over safety?

Small business owners can support suppliers by being proactive about challenges, ensuring timely payments, improving access to information and equipment, and complying with local laws and regulations for safety and sustainability.

Entrepreneurs may be primarily focus on keeping their heads above water, but they can’t simply achieve growth by any means necessary. Investing now and sourcing ethically can ensure smooth operations and loyal customers who are loyal and trust your products.

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Clients want diverse leadership

In the wake of global protests over the death of George while brands are going through the summer Floyd, there has been a strong push to support Black-own businesses. The effort has paid off – EatOkra, a directory of Black businesses, saw a 4,450% increase in downloads in early June, and other apps in the same space have seen similar spikes in users. Customers are looking for businesses with leadership that are already reflecting the change they seek.

So be open and transparent about who’s running your business, not just atb directory in senior leadership, but at every level. This doesn’t mean touting diversity as a means to increase profits. But it does mean showing your customers proof of your commitment to diversity by highlighting who’s on the staff. If diversity is an opportunity, now’s the time to publicly pl ge to improve your company’s image.

 

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