The head of the Sarnia-Lambton Business Development Corporation (SLBDC) is concerned some pandemic-ravaged local businesses are on the brink of collapse.
General Manager Don Anderson told Sue Storr on CHOK (103.9 FM, 1070 AM) Wednesday morning that possible further extension of the COVID-19 lockdown could be fatal for some.
"I have to be very honest with you, when we had the announcement of the lockdown coming into January, I thought okay we're coming into to what I historically call the January desert, so it wasn't like we were going to miss a lot," said Anderson. "Another four weeks, I'm concerned coming out of this, who is at increased risk of not making it."
In retail fashion for example, Anderson said inventory is bought so far ahead that if part of the winter season is lost, unsold product has to be carried, and then there may be concern about having the cash on hand to buy inventory coming in for summer.
Anderson reiterated that a level playing field for small and large retailers would help.
"Looking at some of these stores on the weekend, you drive by and those parking lots are full. I have a little bit of concern that sometimes small retailers have been subject to a little more stricter guidelines and the field hasn't been quite as level for them."
On a positive note, Anderson said some local businesses with access to the supply lines for things like personal protective equipment and hand sanitizers, were able to pivot when the pandemic hit.
"We saw a number of businesses react quickly and move into that space, and do well," he said.
Anderson also said there's opportunity for Sarnia-Lambton to see some growth by attracting people and businesses from the Greater Toronto Area who are looking to make a move for cost-of-living and quality of life reasons.
-With files from Sue Storr
