As Vancouver enters Phase 2 of B.C.’s restart plan, the local businesses we know and love will gradually begin to re-open their doors.
Businesses throughout the province have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As they now make their return after several weeks, they’re counting on the collective support of Vancouverites.
As of June 1, 22 Business Improvement Associations (BIA’s) across Vancouver are coming together, with the support of the Vancouver Mayor and Council, to launch a joint initiative called “Open With Care”.
Representing more than 22,000 businesses, this campaign is designed to encourage Vancouverites to come and visit businesses across the Metro Vancouver region that are opening with care. Customers are encouraged to:
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Support the local economy as they begin visiting their favourite neighbourhood shops, services, and restaurants
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Have confidence that businesses are committed to reopening responsibly and safely, and
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Be understanding, kind, and patient to local shop, service, and restaurant staff while extra care is being taken.
Support Local. Photo: Vancouver BIA Partnership
Small businesses make up 95% of businesses in B.C.; that is why Vancouver’s BIA’s and the City of Vancouver are encouraging Vancouverites to shop locally as they venture back out into the community. Furthermore, choosing to spend at home is integral to the health of the local economy and ensures that dollars are kept here in the province.
The re-opening of member businesses across the 22 BIA’s in Vancouver is being cautiously and carefully rolled out with health and safety protocols at top of mind to ensure the health and wellness of customers and staff. Restaurants will operate at 50% capacity and shops will admit a limited number of customers in their stores to ensure proper social distancing practices are in place.
Business owners are also asking customers to be mindful and patient when returning to shops and restaurants. As staff implement new practices, extra time will be needed to provide adequate attention and care.
As our city restarts, the hope is for everyone visiting a local business to be able to shop, dine, and relax with care in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead. From boutiques to bistros, our local businesses are what makes our Vancouver communities whole.
For more information on the Open With Care initiative, visit vancouverbiapartnership.com.
