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SOUTH DAKOTA RETAILERS ASSOCIATION NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: March 19, 2020 Contact: Shuree Mortenson, 605.224.5050 smortenson@sdra.org Businesses Say: Top Priority is Well-Being of Employees, Customers and Communities PIERRE, SD – The 4,000 member-businesses of the South Dakota Retailers Association are reminding consumers that the well-being of employees, customers and communities remains their top priority. Restaurants, grocery stores and other retailers are following CDC guidelines and taking extraordinary steps to protect the public, while continuing to serve their local cities and towns. "Most businesses are prioritizing local needs right now, said Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. "Across the state, restaurants have stepped up to provide free meals for students, stores are donating to nursing homes, and mom and pop shops are putting their communities first." Many retail businesses continue to operate, while implementing unprecedented human health and sanitation measures. From restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, pubs, and coffee shops, to shoe stores, hardware, auto repair and barbers, these businesses remain committed to their communities. Retailers in more than 160 different business categories have undertaken expansive efforts to remain open and continue to meet the needs of South Dakotans. "We are working to stay informed and take all necessary actions for the wellness of our guests, crew-members and everyone in our community," said Emily Zarecky-Steber, owner of Drifters Bar and Grille in Fort Pierre. "Guests can join us for dinner or pick-up their meals curbside while taking comfort in knowing that we remain committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment today and every day." Local businesses are protecting the public in a number of ways. Efforts include adding or expanding delivery services, inviting customers to order by phone or email, and delivering curbside or to the home or office. In many cases, special shopping or dining hours have been established to accommodate older or at-risk customers. Convenience stores and gas stations are offering to pump fuel or providing disposable gloves for customers. Grocery stores have implemented frequent sanitizing procedures, paying particular attention to items that are regularly handled: door handles, checkout counters, menus, shopping carts and baskets. “Many retailers around the state remain open, to continue to provide that service to their communities,” said Sanderson. “It’s a responsibility they take seriously because they love their towns and want to help see their neighbors through this challenging time.” There are many ways to give back by supporting mom and pop stores. Consider supporting a local business by purchasing an encouraging gift or thank you to those providing outstanding service. Retailers will gladly send a gift certificate, ship items directly, or facilitate curbside pickup. As we spend more time at home, take a minute to like, share or comment on the social media posts of your favorite local book store, coffee shop, or boutique. Look back to the holiday season and write a review praising a business's exceptional customer service. Businesses can only serve their communities with the support of consumers. Be safe and shop local. The South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA) is one of the nation’s oldest and largest trade organizations, representing almost 4,000 businesses in retail, grocery, hospitality, and trades. Visit SDRA online at sdra.org or find us on Facebook. - 30 -
SOUTH DAKOTA RETAILERS ASSOCIATION NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: March 19, 2020 Contact: Shuree Mortenson, 605.224.5050 smortenson@sdra.org
Businesses Say: Top Priority is Well-Being of Employees, Customers and Communities
PIERRE, SD – The 4,000 member-businesses of the South Dakota Retailers Association are reminding consumers that the well-being of employees, customers and communities remains their top priority. Restaurants, grocery stores and other retailers are following CDC guidelines and taking extraordinary steps to protect the public, while continuing to serve their local cities and towns. "Most businesses are prioritizing local needs right now, said Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. "Across the state, restaurants have stepped up to provide free meals for students, stores are donating to nursing homes, and mom and pop shops are putting their communities first." Many retail businesses continue to operate, while implementing unprecedented human health and sanitation measures. From restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, pubs, and coffee shops, to shoe stores, hardware, auto repair and barbers, these businesses remain committed to their communities. Retailers in more than 160 different business categories have undertaken expansive efforts to remain open and continue to meet the needs of South Dakotans. "We are working to stay informed and take all necessary actions for the wellness of our guests, crew-members and everyone in our community," said Emily Zarecky-Steber, owner of Drifters Bar and Grille in Fort Pierre. "Guests can join us for dinner or pick-up their meals curbside while taking comfort in knowing that we remain committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment today and every day." Local businesses are protecting the public in a number of ways. Efforts include adding or expanding delivery services, inviting customers to order by phone or email, and delivering curbside or to the home or office. In many cases, special shopping or dining hours have been established to accommodate older or at-risk customers. Convenience stores and gas stations are offering to pump fuel or providing disposable gloves for customers. Grocery stores have implemented frequent sanitizing procedures, paying particular attention to items that are regularly handled: door handles, checkout counters, menus, shopping carts and baskets. “Many retailers around the state remain open, to continue to provide that service to their communities,” said Sanderson. “It’s a responsibility they take seriously because they love their towns and want to help see their neighbors through this challenging time.” There are many ways to give back by supporting mom and pop stores. Consider supporting a local business by purchasing an encouraging gift or thank you to those providing outstanding service. Retailers will gladly send a gift certificate, ship items directly, or facilitate curbside pickup. As we spend more time at home, take a minute to like, share or comment on the social media posts of your favorite local book store, coffee shop, or boutique. Look back to the holiday season and write a review praising a business's exceptional customer service. Businesses can only serve their communities with the support of consumers. Be safe and shop local.
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