Most businesses in Corpus Christi are now adapting to a new normal in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to
a recent survey conducted for communities across Texas, three out of four local businesses in the Coastal Bend region have fully reopened since a lockdown was lifted in April. Still, one in five of them are operating with reduced hours, and another 7% of them remain closed.
The overall business condition is poised to improve further. Schools have begun in-person instruction, paving the way to more foot traffic to local businesses like retail shops and restaurants. In response to a steady slowdown in new COVID-19 cases, Gov Abbott announced his plan to reopen bars — the last businesses to reopen since the state began reopening its economy in May.
The survey indicates that more than half of businesses are enforcing different COVID-19-related protocols while facing supply chain disruptions. In addition to federal loans and grants under the CARES Act, local government programs have helped scores of local businesses retain or rehire their employees. Corpus Christi’s unemployment rate has fallen from a record level of 15.7% in April to 8.4% today.
Looking ahead, the majority of local business owners will no longer operate their business as usual. More employees will work from home. Nearly half of local businesses plan to reduce travel or in-person events, according to the survey. For now, the economic outlook is overshadowed by the threat of another virus outbreak and its impact on the national and local economies.
To survive and thrive through COVID-19 and beyond, local small businesses must show agility,or flexibility to change.
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By Jim Lee, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
