'Small Businesses Really Need You': Local Business Owners Making Adjustments As Region Prepares To Enter Yellow Phase
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It was damp and dreary Saturday morning along East Passyunk Avenue, but there are brighter days ahead for businesses shuttered by Wolf's stay-at-home order. Wolf announced Friday he anticipates Philadelphia and its surrounding counties will move to the "yellow" phase by June 5.
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And that means in-person retail will be allowed.
"It's a big step forward, but I'm hesitant because things change so quickly," Michelle Gillen-Doobrajh said.
The pandemic forced the owner of Tildie's Toy Box in South Philadelphia to go from an in-person operation to an online shop for the first time. Gillen-Doobrajh says the website will now serve as additional income as she welcomes shoppers but not without adjustments.
"Making sure we have enough wipes and basic things like that," she said. "And limiting the number of people inside the store."
At Carolyn Zinni Bridal Salon, the "say yes to the dress" celebration will be different.
"We will only allow brides to have two guests. We want the shop to be extra hygienic, but we will take extra steps," Owner Carolyn Zinni said.
In the "yellow" phase, retail stores are asked to consider curbside pickup and delivery.
Also, the stay-at-home is lifted, telework must continue where feasible, large gatherings of more than 25 people are prohibited, child care can open with guidance, bars and restaurants remain limited to take-out and delivery and indoor recreation and entertainment venues will remain closed.
As the region returns to some sense of normalcy, business owners we spoke with hope consumers shop local.
"Your small businesses really need you right now," Gillen-Doobrajh said.
