How to Help Small Businesses Survive Post-COVID-19

Being COVID-free is one big feat for a nation. It takes a great deal of sacrifices and cooperation from a team of 5 million to make this happen. The early lockdown that saw businesses close their doors to prevent the virus from spreading has certainly helped us get to where we are now. But what really is life like after lockdown for businesses, especially the small and fledgling entrepreneurs? How can we help small businesses survive post-COVID-19?

Sadly, it is not “business as usual” for most if not all. Small businesses have been the most affected by COVID-19. Almost 30% of New Zealand employees are employed by these businesses. As part of our economic recovery, we must support our local businesses to ensure their survival and to keep our unemployment rates as low as possible post coronavirus. In Auckland CBD, you can already see the effects of the lockdown, as many cafes and shops have closed for good. Foot traffic has decreased by 40%, as well as spending, according to the Heart of the City. Many businesses are continuing to choose more flexible working, taking people away from the CBD. If CBD businesses lose their regulars, we may see more closures.

Everyone can do their bit by supporting local businesses that are struggling to keep afloat right now. Here are a few ways you can help small businesses.

Support local cafes

Mornings usually start with a cup of coffee, especially now that we are slowly returning to our offices and no longer get that extra sleep in. (Oh, the joys of working from home!) The good news is that if you buy your coffee somewhere other than a chain store or a petrol station you are already doing your part!

Support local NZ owned shops

Branch out from the usual chain stores that are owned by international companies and opt for NZ owned stores.

Farmers markets.

Agriculture is a huge part of not only our economy but our culture and way of life. One way you can support local is by supporting local growers. Farmer’s markets are now able to open in level 1. Here are some good ones around Auckland:
- Grey Lynn Farmers Market – Open Sundays 8 am – 12 pm
- La Cigale French market – Open Saturday 8 am – 1.30 pm and Sunday 9 am- 1.30 pm
- Parnell Farmers Market – Saturday 8 am – 12 pm

Night Markets.

Support local food vendors. Find Auckland night markets near you here: http://aucklandnightmarkets.co.nz/.

Donate

There are a few ways you can donate to a business an easy one is to tip. Or if you are a fan of the arts support our creatives. Find out how you can donate by exploring the links below.
- https://philanthropy.org.nz/
- https://www.creativenz.govt.nz/
- https://givealittle.co.nz/

CBD Office is here to help

As a small business ourselves we know now more than ever how much your business needs a boost. Help us by letting us help you.

Recovering from the effects of COVID-19 will be a long journey for us all. To help fellow small businesses, freelancers, and anyone else affected by COVID-19, we are opening TheWorkHub up for FREE! From 15th June – 15th July use our coworking space FREE of charge, including FREE COFFEE and WIFI! All we ask is you like our Facebook page, and subscribe to our newsletter.

If you are looking to downsize or are opting to work flexibly, we have the solutions to help! We offer affordable virtual and serviced offices, perfect for those looking to save on costs.

Learn how we can help you succeed at www.cbdoffice.co.nz/.

Links to check out:

Discover local businesses:
- https://heartofthecity.co.nz/
- https://www.hotcity.co.nz/
- https://supportnzlocal.com/

For small business owners:
- https://www.tools.business.govt.nz/boost/
- https://cbdoffice.co.nz/
- https://www.business.govt.nz/covid-19/

Simuserv

“CBD Office provided us with a professional and affordable virtual office for the last 2 years. Inna and her team have always been friendly, helpful and very efficient. I would recommend CBD Office without hesitation.”

ANDREW JACKSON - NZ MANAGER
Find IT Recruitment

“We spent over 2 years at the CBD office. The tailored solutions were perfect for us and grew as we increased headcount within the business. Inna and Liz were very accommodating and went above and beyond providing a high level of service to suit our needs. I’d highly recommend CBD for companies in a start-up phase or small to medium companies looking to get a cost effective office or virtual office in the city.”

Pete Thompson - Director
CCM Recruitment

“Diana and Sophie are quick to respond to emails and accommodating. Nothing was too much trouble. They provide efficient and friendly service with that personal touch. We look forward to holding our future events at CBD offices.”

Raquel Mitchell - Senior Recruitment Consultant
Sonja Palinich - Barrister

“CBD Office has been perfect for me and for the needs of my business. It offers a professional, affordable office space in the heart of Auckland City. The staff are always very friendly and helpful in providing great administrative support. I would have no hesitation in recommending CBD Office.”

Sonja Palinich - Barrister
Insync Workplace Solutions

“CBD Office has provided us with a great base for our NZ operations over the past 12 months. The staff are extremely professional and provide an exceptional level of service. We would highly recommend CBD Office.”

Deanne Bowles - Director
Yearbook Limited

“We have been using CBD office for almost a year, we are really happy with the service they offer. All the staff are really professional and easy to deal with, Sophie is always nice and smiley whenever we stop by to collect our mails, and their prompt emails and correspondence make our job so much easier. CBD office is ideal for companies like us who mostly work from home but want to make the most of having Auckland city address as well as PO box for reasonable price. When we have visitors, we can book one of the room and our customers are impressed with the nice facility.”

Manami Isogane - Director
Liquid Voice

“CBD offers up great facilities in the heart of Auckland’s CBD . Staff are friendly and willing to help in any way they can. Would I recommend them to other companies. ABSOLUTELY!”

Sean Gallen - APAC Sales Manager
The Village Goldsmith

“My experience with the CBD office and their staff has been brilliant. Diana and Sophie at reception are always so welcoming to me and my clients, and are always very helpful. They are very quick and efficient with my booking requests, even when my appointments are at short notice. I would recommend CBD office to any business wanting a professional and private office to meet with clients.”

Georgina Stockton - Manager
Bibby Financial Services

“I’ve been with CBD Office for 1 ½ years now and I’m very delighted with the outstanding facilities and the helpful attitude of the staff. Running a one man office in Downtown Auckland, CBD Office offers that additional support like doing my banking and other administration support that I may need. And in case I’m away there is still a “manned office”. I admire their professionalism, friendliness and willingness to provide assistance when needed. I would definitely recommend CBD Office to any company in search for a high quality serviced office.”

John Blackmore - National Sales Manager
Terralink International

“CBD Offices have been an excellent place to work for our company, great facilities, friendly staff and a vibrant social hub right in the heart of town.”

Theresa Wells - Senior Business Development Manager

Contact Us