We made it. Against all odds, loads of anxiety, and a solid amount of fear, the world is emerging out of the pandemic’s lockdown status. While the virus is certainly not south of us yet, markets across the world are starting to reopen – slowly but surely.
This development is met by mixed emotions from all directions, but progress is being made one step at a time. During a trial and error period like this, every market can learn something from those bold enough to make the first moves.
Here are a few post-closure lessons we can learn from the markets that have already reopened.
“Stay at Home” to “Safer at Home”
After 10+ weeks of strict stay-at-home orders, states transitioned their official status to a ‘safer at home’ model.
The ‘safer at home’ approach is outlined by the gradual reopening of public businesses and commercial areas, but COVID-19 is still top of mind. Local authorities are encouraging citizens to keep their outings to a minimum, and safety protocols are still being enforced.
May saw more and more markets reopen and everyone’s looking at those who’ve been open for advice on how to deal with the challenges posed by the post-pandemic world.
These 4 strategies are helping people stay safe while going about their (new) normal lives.
- Social Distancing
One thing that’s been demonstrated by the open states is that social distancing is here to stay. Whether you’re popping into a store or walking the shoreline, signs reading ‘social distance – 1.5 to 2 meters are posted everywhere.
- Requiring PPE
Masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer – check. These three items are stil accompanying the classic phone, wallet, and keys ‘leave the house’ checklist.
Indoor stores, restaurants, and small businesses are requiring staff to wear the proper personal protective equipment to limit the spread of germs within the space. Keeping things clean to consumer standards isn’t easy, but this step is reaping positive results.
- Open Air Environments are Key
Outdoor attachments to commercial spaces have never been more valuable than they are today. Many commercial tenants are expanding these outdoor spaces.
Commercial tenants need to literally think outside the box to make reopening work.
- Spatial Requirements
All in all, it’s clear that CRE’s tenants are updating their spatial wishlists. Some businesses are closing up shop and pulling out of their leases, while others are looking for new spaces that can better meet their needs in the post-COVID world.
CRE pros, get ready to offer creative solutions to all the curveballs that are on the horizon.