Business updates – some are closing, others changing their service

AG Foods, like its cousin Buy-Low Foods, is still open and they are doing their best to serve customers and keep supply lines open. Check their Facebook page for updates. (© Richard McGuire Photo)

Local businesses are working hard to adapt their operations to the new reality of the pandemic. In some cases, this means closing down. Others are limiting their hours or are adapting to options like take-out instead of sit-down eating.

Many announcements from businesses are posted on the Osoyoos Loop Facebook page. Search for “Stores Closed or limitations” for a list.

Because the information is changing so rapidly, Osoyoos Persists doesn’t plan to post a comprehensive list at this time. This news category, however, will provide information about some of the most important changes.

As of today, March 19, grocery stores and pharmacies remain open. Although some essential products such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer are difficult or impossible to find, all efforts are being made to keep supply chains flowing and products available. Even in countries that have resorted to lock-downs, arrangements have been made to keep such businesses operating, so there is no need to panic buy.

For updates from Buy-Low Foods, please visit their Facebook page.

For updates from AG Foods, see their Facebook page.

For Shoppers Drug Mart Osoyoos, see their Facebook page.

For Pharmasave Osoyoos, see their Facebook page.

Some stores such as The Source have temporarily closed their retail locations, but online ordering is still possible.

Some restaurants such as Jojo’s Café are limiting their service to take-out only.

Canada Post continues to operate, but with changes. They will no longer be asking for signatures at doors and will follow “safe drop” procedures instead. On-time delivery guarantees are being suspended.

Banks remain open, but you are encouraged to use online banking where possible. Check with the banks for service changes.

Jojo’s Café was still open on March 19 for take-out only. They plan outdoor pick-up. The outdoor seating wasn’t the best for social distancing and to stay a safe distance, pedestrians had to walk onto the street. (© Richard McGuire Photo)
Buy-Low Foods, like its cousin AG Foods, is still open and they are doing their best to serve customers and keep supply lines open. Check their Facebook page for updates. (© Richard McGuire Photo)

 

Author: Richard McGuire

Richard McGuire is an Osoyoos photographer who worked at the Osoyoos Times between 2012 and 2018, first as reporter and then as editor. He has a long career in journalism as well as research, communication and management at the House of Commons in Ottawa and in the federal government.