Winter weather has a knack for putting a freeze on business operations. From reduced sales, increased costs, and slowed supply chains. The economic impact of closures can snowball quickly, often outweighing the price of hiring professional snow removal services. To prevent winter shutdowns, local businesses should implement strategies that ensure preparedness, maintain smooth operations, and provide accessibility for both employees and customers before the first snowflake falls.
Winter Freeze: The Economic Impacts
Snow and ice have significant economic impacts on local economies, affecting every community, facility, and individual. One of the most immediate effects of winter weather is a decrease in customer foot traffic. When roads are covered in snow and ice, potential customers are less likely to venture out, resulting in lower sales. Additionally, businesses face higher operational costs due to increased utility usage, such as heating.
Prolonged closures can lead to substantial revenue losses. Hourly employees may be unable to work, causing financial strain for both the business and its workers. Power outages and property damage during winter storms further contribute to the cost burden.
Essential deliveries are delayed, impacting inventory and the availability of products and services. Healthcare facilities, in particular, experience significant strain as they must maintain staff and accessibility around the clock, even during severe weather. Adding snow removal services into the mix? It might seem like a scary expense, but staying prepared is often more cost-effective. Investing in snow removal services helps ensure your business remains accessible and operational during winter events, making the cold season a little less chilling for your business.
Icy Slips and Safety
Winter weather should raise numerous safety concerns for every local business. Slips and falls pose a significant risk for both customers and employees, potentially leading to injuries and liability issues. Timely snow removal and deicing are crucial to providing safe access to businesses, reducing the risk of accidents, and ensuring a safe environment for staff and visitors.
Proper shoveling is a critical aspect of snow safety, as it ensures that pathways are clear of snow and ice. To stay safe while shoveling your storefront, work in small, manageable sections, take regular breaks, lift with your legs instead of your back, and watch out for icy patches. Additionally, effective snow storage is necessary to prevent hazardous piles that could obstruct visibility or pathways. Paying special attention to curbs, vehicles, and other obstacles hidden under snow can further reduce the risk of accidents.
Walking on icy sidewalks presents a significant slip-and-fall risk. Ensure walkways are properly treated with deicing agents. For businesses offering essential services, having a well-prepared plan and ongoing snow removal services is crucial to maintaining uninterrupted operations and ensuring safety and accessibility.
Storm-Proof Solutions
Implementing preventative measures early on in the season can help keep your business running when snow starts piling up.
First, clear communication with customers and employees is crucial. Make sure everyone is in the loop about any changes in business hours or procedures due to weather conditions. Have a winter work policy in place that complies with labor laws, ensuring that employees are protected from the risks of snow and ice and are not required to drive in hazardous conditions.
Next, prioritize the maintenance of your building’s entries and exits, parking spaces near front doors, sidewalks, and delivery areas. Ensuring safe and easy access for everyone is key. Having a comprehensive snow plan will allow you to respond quickly and effectively to winter weather events, without having to close your doors.
Consider utilizing professional snow removal and anti-icing services. These pros can handle the heavy lifting, saving you time and effort. This way, you can focus on what you do best–running your business.
A Successful Winter
Winter weather can be a real headache, but preparedness can save you major revenue losses. Demonstrating preparedness and care for your customers and staff enhances your business practices and operational efficiency. When your staff can arrive safely and perform their duties without the added stress of navigating winter conditions, your business wins!
The winter months can slow down many businesses in the hospitality and retail industries. But don’t let the cold freeze your momentum–adjusting your business plans with the weather in mind can keep you open, visible, and thriving. Ramp up your sales and marketing with seasonal promotions to warm up customer interest, and have a team in place to clear snow and ice from your storefront. Additionally, review and update staffing plans to handle potential weather-related absences with ease.
Investing in snow removal and de-icing isn’t just another expense–it’s a smart strategy for keeping your business thriving all winter long. So, stay ahead of the storm, keep your business safe and accessible, and contact MSNW for your winter weather needs!