Support Local Businesses

Updated 3/16/2020

Businesses are being affected by the new Coronavirus (Covid-19) in tangible ways across New York City. There are ways that community members can still help support the local economy and our beloved small businesses in the midst of the related economic slowdown. This is a rapidly changing situation and we urge everyone to follow the guidelines and protocols, including social distancing, put forth by public health officials.

Effective 8PM Monday, March 16, crowd capacity is to be reduced to 50 total people, and 50% occupancy rates. Restaurants and bars that serve food will be shifting to takeout/delivery ONLY. It is being reported that alcholic beverages will now also be available for delivery.

All gyms and fitness centers and movie theatres must also close at 8pm tonight.

1. 1. Order Delivery:  When ordering delivery from your favorite spot consider ordering from a business’s website directly, instead of thrid-party outlets that collect commission fees, which ensures more of your dollars go directly to the business
   2. Shop Locally Online:  Support local retailers by purchasing items for delivery.
   3. Buy gIft cards: Retailers, restaurants, fitness studios, cultural amenities and services may be offering online gift cards for purchase. Buying one now for future use gives businesses some much needed shirt-term income.
   4. Essential staff lodging: If your essential personel are needed close to work, many area hotels have reduced rates.
   5. Give good reviews: Use your time to give businsses you love great reviews on various platforms and like and share their social media posts.
   6. If possible, don’t ask for refunds. If a changing situation means you’re no longer in need of their service, consider not asking for a refund.

Our interactive, digital Flatiron Guide that maps out the district is a helpful resource to become aware of local businesses. You can filter by business type for easy searching.  Note that many businesses may have closed completely so double check their website for delivery or gift card availability, or give them a call.

Again, stay up to date on current conditions in New York City and please stay home, even if you don’t feel sick.

For more infomation on local updates, you can visit our resource page. You can also visit the New York City Department of Health General Info Page.

Thumbnail Photo Credit: @fleurs_de_sel