Recognizing that the Covid-19 Pandemic has created and is creating unimaginable pressures on all businesses, big and small. The Chamber remains concerned that many firms in the micro and small business sector especially those in the informal sector are facing great difficulty in remaining afloat. The Covid-19 Protocols are also placing an extra cost on all businesses and in the case of the informal, micro and small business sector many are incapable of carrying these extra costs. These business may well pose a high threat for spread of the virus within their operations.

We wish to aggressively support the use of the Covid-19 Protocols as laid out by the health authorities, in particular, the wearing of masks, regular hand sanitizing and of course physical distancing. We do not believe that businesses, or any one should have to choose between lives and livelihoods. We remain strong proponents of the viewpoint, that as a Chamber we must, not only encourage the following of the health protocols, but we must, provide information and seek to empower persons and businesses to take responsibility for helping the nation co-exist with COVID-19. The micro, small and informal sector we think, need support and encouragement to utilize the protocols within their business operations. Remember these sectors are vital cogs in our business and socio economic wheel.

Noting the challenges faced by businesses in these sectors we seek to initiate a program of support and we invite members to join us:

Donation of COVID-19 Protocols

• Signage- Poster/ Stickers - Social Distancing Signage, Face Mask Required Signs, Temperature Check Sign, Germ Prevention Covid -19 (Sanitize upon entry)
• Floor Decals/ Physical Distancing - One-way Shopping, 6FT distancing,
• Separators for Staff and Cashiers from Customers
• PPE- Face mask, Face Shield, Disposable Gloves, Disposable Aprons
• Sanitizing Equipment/ Product
• Hand Sanitizers

The intention is for the Chamber to provide these goods to micro and small business so that they can be part of the economic activity and employment creation vehicle of the private sector. This we will do while encouraging them and helping them to observe the Health Protocol. Thus, helping to ensure their continued operation. This, we think will go a long way in reducing the spread of the virus in business places, particular small business and making sure they are safer for their customers and their staff.

The Chamber’s COVID-Impact Survey (Take2) has shown a disproportionate impact on small businesses and we can only imagine the impact on the micro, small and informal business sector. We welcome product as mentioned above as well as cash contributions where we can source some of these items, to give to that sector.

Members willing to be part of this most valuable venture should contact the Chamber at email: info@stluciachamber.org or tell. 758 452 3165.