Since the first fears of the pandemic emerged in the U.S. in early March, businesses across the US have endured six months of uncertainty. The initial spring shutdowns delivered a strong punch to establishments such as salons, daycare centers, and tattoo parlors.
According to the Local Economic Impact Report by Yelp.com, as many as 97,966 businesses have permanently shut down during the pandemic.
The restaurant industry is among the most impacted with an increasing number of closures – totaling 32,109 closures as of August 31, with 19,590 of these business closures indicated to be permanent (61%). Breakfast and brunch restaurants, burger joints, sandwich shops, dessert places and Mexican restaurants have been shutting down the most but those that are still alive are struggling, too. In order to survive, they must adapt to new regulations and consumer habits. Some, however, are finding really creative ways to deal with these challenges. Especially, when it comes to outdoor dining. Or is it indoor dining? I don't know. I can't tell the difference anymore.
