The easing of Covid-19 restrictions on Tuesday will give Kiwi businesses a boost but the continued need for social distancing will present unique challenges for the country's hospitality and retail sector.
The Government has asked business-owners to find innovative ways to make contactless sales under Level 3 conditions and urged Kiwis to support them and the economy by buying local.
National retail and food service brands will have an advantage over many smaller, neighbourhood businesses and will have the infrastructure in place to deal with deliveries and digital payments.
Chris Beasleigh, national retail sales and leasing director for Bayleys Real Estate, says while Kiwis would be genuine in their desire to support their local economy, businesses that struggled to adapt or innovate would find the post-lockdown environment extremely challenging.
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"This environment would call more than ever for agility, creativity and resilience to constantly adapt business models," Beasleigh says.
“For example, local food outlets may find themselves increasingly competing with mums and dads cooking supermarket produce, rather than with other restaurants or cafes.
“The ability for dine-in outlets to provide takeaway or delivered meals at very reasonable prices will be paramount. As economic conditions deteriorate further, many may consider offering cheaper re-heatable meals or even ingredients and recipes. Bars which are not licensed for off-premise alcohol sales may adopt online orders and deliveries of food from the kitchen."
Beasleigh
adds: “Operators which are located in residential areas, and are well established within their local communities, will have an advantage. But their success will depend on the loyalty and support of local clientele."
