Nonprimary Industry Update Q3 2020

Nonprimary Industry Trends: Business-to-Business & Business-to-Consumer

Throughout the last quarter, the Chamber has had numerous conversations with Chamber member companies as a part of our regular outreach activities.

Business-to-Business (B2B) Sampling of Conversations

Service and supply companies have been busy. Commercial janitorial services have hired additional staff and increased sales with the onslaught of businesses needing to disinfect often and with effective cleaners. Companies that supply PPE products, disinfectant, and paper products have experienced local business growth.

Some professional service organizations have seen projects put on hold due to clients’ budget cuts or spending freezes and concerns of COVID.

Business-to-Consumer (B2C) Sampling of Conversations

The hospitality industry has been hard hit. Hotels report revenues are down, they are still seeing a shortage of guests and have not been able to bring back furloughed staff. Most hotels have received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) assistance. Restaurants report they are starting to see more customers. However, they are having staffing issues including employees that were furloughed found other jobs while new employees are not showing up to work, coming in late, or calling in sick.

Sales are still down in many retail stores and businesses have laid off staff. Some retail businesses are in danger of permanently closing. Retailers report online buying has hurt local sales.

Sales have been strong at home improvement retailers. With more people staying home, there has been a surge in home improvement projects. Contractors have been busy resulting in more business for those supplying products such as carpet, flooring, cabinets, and more.

Personal care services and doctor’s offices report revenues are down due to initial mandated closures due to COVID.

Nonprofit Organizations Sampling of Conversations

Donations are down at nonprofit organizations and large corporate donors have put a freeze on spending. Events have been canceled or adjusted to virtual events. Some organizations have been awarded nonprofit COVID-related grant funds.

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