From victims to victors businesses are beginning to bounce back after COVID-19

Tough times don’t last, but tough people do

The UK Government has launched the GREAT Inspirations Campaign to shine a light on businesses and their employees across the country who have responded to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in remarkable ways and are now going back to business.

One business that has continued operating for its employees, serving their customers and contributing to their local communities is KBS Builders Merchants in London.
KBS provides high-quality building materials to local DIY enthusiasts and builders. With spring weather signalling the return of warmer months when people tend to do more building work, KBS was getting set for increased business. However, the lockdown put a sudden halt to usual trading.

Africa Telegraph spoke to Dani Gill, one of three co-owners. He explained how they quickly adjusted operations to continue to serve their customers and keep their staff in jobs.

All business went online. The store was shut to the public, so they sold on a delivery only basis. “Many customers who come into the shop need something quickly. Therefore, we ensured we could deliver safely and speedily,” Dani said.

When shops could finally reopen, KBS had new systems in place that complied with UK Government guidelines. Only two customers at a time could enter the store. Clear signage from the very moment customers entered assured them that they could shop safely while maintaining 2-metre social distancing. There were also arrows guiding people along a one-way system throughout the store.

For KBS, it was also important to support the local community during a difficult time. Dani said, “Our community is important to us. We owe NHS staff a lot of gratitude for their role during the pandemic. KBS offers free, guaranteed same-day delivery to NHS workers and care workers who live locally. It doesn’t matter how small they buy; we’ll deliver for free. We are only too glad to be able to show our appreciation.”

The new normal

Another business which restarted after the lockdown is Morgan Richards Auto Garage in London.

Richard Gunningham, the CEO of Morgan Richards Auto Garage, has strived to ensure the safety of his staff and customers. His main thrust is to follow the UK Government’s guidance to high street businesses that are prepared to reopen their doors in a way that is safe for their employees and customers, such as ensuring social distancing.

Richard told Africa Telegraph Newspaper, “As you can see, we are implementing the two-metre distancing guide, and have a glass shield at our reception desk to protect the staff.”

He continues, “Only one customer at a time is allowed in the reception, every other customer will have to queue up outside while maintaining a two-metre distance.

“The garage workshop is now strictly a no-go-area for customers who wish to pick up their vehicles. Customers are now required to wait outside while their vehicles are delivered to them by a mechanical engineer.”

Due to COVID-19, Morgan Richards had to produce new rules on MOT testing. Cars, vans and motorcycles due for their MOT from 30 March will have their MOT extended for six months. This will allow vehicle owners to continue to get to work where this absolutely cannot be done from home, or to do some essential shopping. Although, the garage recommends that vehicles must be kept in a roadworthy condition and drivers can be prosecuted if they drive an unsafe vehicle.

Reopening non-essential retail is necessary for businesses, as it helps in restoring people’s livelihood, restarting the UK’s economy, and ensuring vital public services such as the NHS continues to be funded.

To read about more inspiring, GREAT stories, visit
https://www.greatbritaincampaign.com/inspirations