December is a spending and giving month. Pandemic or not, people will be buying and exchanging gifts for any holiday they choose to celebrate, even if celebrations and get-togethers are cancelled or lower key than usual.
COVID-19 has changed buying habits of consumers, but the reality of the new normal has not changed the goal of businesses. Connecting with and serving their customers’ needs remain at the top of the list.
Competing with online companies continues to be a struggle for small businesses. Local traffic is important year-round, but many record their strongest sales during December as residents seek ways to spoil friends and loved ones.
The trickle-down effect is huge. When customers buy at local businesses, it allows proprietors to pay it forward when making their own purchases at other establishments, as well as paying employees who do the same, whether it involves gifts or everyday household purchases.
Charitable organizations also face the same challenges as they did during pre-pandemic times. COVID-19 only makes those challenges greater.
Coronavirus has had a major effect on the pocketbooks of many would-be shoppers or philanthropists who support nonprofits. For those lucky enough not to be suffering through the financial impact COVID-19 has had on many residents, the new normal provides an opportunity to expand their gift-giving horizons. Buy one more gift at a local shop for someone in need, adopt a family and treat them to a donation from a distance, buy a few extra items at the grocery store and drop them off at the food bank or a shelter.
Make someone’s holiday season brighter.
