Phase 2 presents hurdles for business owners, NC small towns
As North Carolina moves into Phase 2 of the reopen plan, getting back in business may look different in some of the state's small towns.
Posted — UpdatedPrivate gyms, restaurants and salons can be found on Main Street in towns like Fuquay Varina. Mark Doble, who operates Aviator Brewing Company, anticipates welcoming customers again.
"A lot of our business has disappeared, so running a payroll like we had before, we're just unable to do," he said.
Doble told WRAL News beer production has increased and take-out sales are doing well, but he's been forced to make difficult decisions.
"We shut down the Tap House, running a kitchen is very expensive," he said.
Sarah McAllister, who runs three businesses in the town of Apex, had to temporarily shut down The Exchange Barbershop and Syeni Salon and Spa. She hopes there's enough foot traffic to make up for lost revenue.
"How am I going to make up for that loss when I'm restricted with how many people I'll be able to have in here," McAllister said.
Her urban market Root 101 has been open some days and continues to survive the pandemic.
Business owners in small towns credit their use of social media to helping them stay afloat.
In all, 56 grants in the amount of $3000 were awarded to business owners.
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