Those who opened enjoy a steady stream of business
By Medicine Hat News on May 15, 2020.
Shoppers, diners, retailers and restaurateurs in Medicine Hat were out and about or open for business on Thursday – the first day of a phased lifting of public health restrictions related to COVID-19. Mooks Fabrics reported a steady and well-mannered flow of customers, many wearing masks, and seeking new material. Drive-thru lineups were notably long. Garden Centres, other retailers, restaurants and others did a brisk trade as Hatters ventured out for purchasing more than items deemed essential – such as groceries, prescriptions and other products – and at least some were inclined to eat out, rather than order in. There’s no accurate way to measure business activity following two months after pandemic restrictions to limit crowds from gathering and the closure of all but essential supply retailers for in-store essentially shut down the major retail centre and almost all other retailers across Alberta. Most retailers, restaurants, hair dressers and some other public facilities were allowed to restart operations and welcome the public on Thursday, part of an initial phase of the province’s relaunch strategy. A second phase, involving remaining businesses, retailers and service providers is tentatively set for June 19, but depends on successful limitation of infection rates until then. Medicine Hat Mall management told the News that staff at the facility – closed since late March – were implementing health requirements and a new operating model. Individual retailers maintain the right to decide when they will attempt to re-open, but the majority are planning on re-opening for business today. “Some of our tenants will choose to open later than others and may even operate with different hours than that of the shopping centre,” said manager Kevin Brees in an emailed statement. “We are excited to welcome our community back … We will have reduced hours at first, we will be following safety and cleaning best practices in the shopping centre and our food court.” On Monday, the Alberta government released sector-specific health guidelines and operational requirements from businesses to ensure they are complying with health regulations and other measures to reduce congestion and avoid large numbers of people gatherings. Business leaders and even government officials predict an uneven relaunch – meaning some operators will delay opening – and all residents are requested to maintain sound health practices. Most are also stressing “Support Local” campaigns to help locally owned and operated businesses after many small businesses have endured seven weeks of steep decline in activity. Initially the mall will operate from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, then noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Access will be limited to three main entrances. Signs will be posted and hand sanitizer will be placed throughout the building. Seating will be limited in the foodcourt. Brees also states operations will be modified on an as-needed basis, meaning shoppers can expect changes and stores to open on a staggered basis. The facility on Dunmore Road has been generally closed since mid-March, with some stores – such as Safeway, Shoppers Drug stores, two others and a medical clinic continuing to offer service. 16-15
