During times like these, it’s always interesting to see what new and innovative ways small businesses are working to reach out to old and new customers alike. About a week ago, we highlighted the Sift+Pour Bakery in Dallas, Texas. This week, we want to take a look at a shop that’s a piece of the Towne Advisory extended family.
The Wine and Liquor Mart in Poughkeepsie, NY is a family business opened by Frank and Peggy Tavarez in 1999. When the novel coronavirus started closing down non-essential businesses, the couple had the opportunity to stay open as an essential business located between two hospitals. Competitors were remaining open and it might have made sense for Frank and Peggy to follow suit.
Instead, they chose the health of their employees and patrons. They shut their doors for the duration and pivoted their business. They invested in a new website, upgraded their inventory system, and added an online ordering system all in under 10 days. They used social media to highlight the business changes and it’s paid off, allowing The Wine and Liquor Mart to continue serving the community once again since the new site launched.
Frank and Peggy have proven that it’s possible to stay in business while still keeping employees and the community as healthy and safe as possible. Way to go Frank and Peggy!
If you know of a small business that’s found a new or innovative way to serve its customers, let me know.