COVID-19, AKA the novel coronavirus, has us buying all the hand sanitizer and hunkering down – but our city’s entrepreneurs are stepping up to what is also a challenge for local small businesses.
“We are adjusting hour by hour day by day,” said Meredith Calhoun of Practice Works, a wellness coworking space. “Most of our wellness practitioners are significantly impacted by not being able to be face to face with their clients.”
Birmingham’s small businesses are using daring problem-solving to roll with the punches and find new ways to serve their customer base in these weird times.
Here’s how some of REV partners and clients have adjusted their business hours and business models to keep both customers and employees safe.
Restaurants offering curbside pick-up
Fitness classes going remote
Several local studios are finding ways to help Birminghamians break a sweat, even if that means virtually. Studios such as Battle Republic and True40 are hosting online classes starting this week. Ignite Cycle, whose business model is based on riders working out in-studio, is hosting FREE online dance parties throughout the week and on Saturday. Practice Works is in the process of recording content to post on Facebook for group classes such as yoga, Tai chi and meditation. Retail items are also still available online.
Contact-free produce pick-up
With supplies dwindling in some grocery store chains, Big Pitch finalist Blueroot Co. is doing what they can to help people stock their fridge with items such as grilled proteins, grains, oats, roasted vegetables, salad dressings, snacks and eggs. Customers can also take advantage of contact-free pick-up locations. Visit bluerootco.com for more information.
Crowd-funding to keep employees afloat
Domestique has closed all of its locations until further notice in the face of COVID-19, but its roasting facility remains open to fulfill online orders. What’s more, is that the company is launching a Founder’s Card. The proceeds of the card go to helping out cafe employes until business resumes as usual. Visit domestiquecoffee.com for more information on you can help out, too.
News
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Your guide to a family-friendly day downtown
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Family Friendly, Front Page, Get Involved, Small Business, Yaysayers
With summer just around the corner, kids will soon be out of school and insisting on getting out of the house. Luckily, Downtown Birmingham has an abundance of family-friendly activities that will keep your kiddos entertained and create lifelong memories.
We know taking kids out for extended periods can be challenging; that’s why we have curated a list of experiences designed to be enjoyable within a manageable 3 – 4 hour timeframe. This way, both children and parents can make the most of their time without feeling overwhelmed or exhausted. These four experiences include lunch options and are tailored to different ages and personalities.
Related News
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Your guide to a family-friendly day downtown
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Family Friendly, Front Page, Get Involved, Small Business, Yaysayers
With summer just around the corner, kids will soon be out of school and insisting on getting out of the house. Luckily, Downtown Birmingham has an abundance of family-friendly activities that will keep your kiddos entertained and create lifelong memories.
We know taking kids out for extended periods can be challenging; that’s why we have curated a list of experiences designed to be enjoyable within a manageable 3 – 4 hour timeframe. This way, both children and parents can make the most of their time without feeling overwhelmed or exhausted. These four experiences include lunch options and are tailored to different ages and personalities.
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Get to know your City Center District Manager, Michael Symes.
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Front Page, Get Involved, REV Team, Yaysayers
Meet Michael Symes, the new City Center District Manager for the Business Improvement District (BID). As a long-time resident of Birmingham, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, having been an active member of the community since graduating from the University of Alabama. In this article, we will explore Michael’s journey and learn about his “accidental roots” in the city, as well as his passion for working with the Business Improvement District (BID) of the Magic City. Follow along as we get to know the person behind the job title and uncover the unique perspective he brings to the role.
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Why your voice on historic preservation is essential
Filed Under: Front Page, Get Involved, Historic Preservation, Residential
President and CEO of REV Birmingham David Fleming writes about the importance of historic preservation and highlights the advocacy efforts that saved the French Quarter in New Orleans and the Forest Park neighborhood in Birmingham. The article concludes with a call to action, urging for new leaders and the implementation of various strategies to protect and celebrate Birmingham’s historic buildings and places.