London companies are nimble and rising to the challenge, and the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is putting a spotlight on some of the many success stories arising out of COVID-19.
In the face of these unprecedented times, we’re seeing many businesses shifting gears to support COVID relief efforts. From pivoting production to manufacturing or donating essential products, London companies are helping to #CombatCOVID.
With efforts like these on all fronts – from all levels of government, support organizations, businesses, and the community – London will remain resilient through this challenging time.
Thank you to many companies and individuals that have stepped up to help wherever they can. How can you help? Share these stories widely or support these local businesses in any way that you can.
If you're looking for further COVID-19-related support, please visit our London Business COVID-19 Portal.
Business as Virtual
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The new normal across the globe during COVID-19 is not ‘business-as-usual’, but ‘business-as-virtual.’ For some companies, especially within the technology sector, this may have already been their norm for their workplaces. However for many, transitioning to an online business was uncharted territory.
Luckily, local London businesses have stepped up to help others launch eCommerce websites and set up remote teams. The LEDC has developed a guide of businesses that have eCommerce site development capabilities, many of which are offering free consultations or support to determine what your business needs to successfully go virtual.
You can view this guide and a list of businesses that can help you set up remote workers in this PDF or on our COVID-resource page in the Local Business Supports section.
In addition to our resource, take a look at the following for best practices on building an eCommerce website:
- The London Small Business Centre and rTraction recently hosted an eCommerce and Marketing 101 virtual workshop featuring local experts
- The Ivey Academy is hosting an Accelerating Digital Transformation webinar on April 22 at 2:00pm, to provide insights on how to transition to digital and cover some commonly asked questions about that transition
- Shopify is offering extended 90-day free trials, free email marketing during COVID-19, and have a number of articles featuring best practices for selling online
Efforts from these online marketing experts have allowed local food and beverage producers to quickly launch eCommerce platforms to sell their products. rTraction has launched Support London Businesses – a hub with links to online stores of local businesses that you can get in touch with without having to go to their physical location.
Explore businesses that are currently operating online or over the phone delivering services such as take-out, delivery, porch-drop, virtual tours, virtual experiences or online events on Tourism London's website and in Downtown London's list.
Included in these lists are several breweries – get your favourite local beverages delivered right to your door:
- Beerlab!
- Curley Brewing Company
- Storm Stayed Brewing Company
- London Brewing Co-Operative
- Anderson Craft Ales
- Forked River
Many additional breweries like Toboggan and Dundas & Sons are offering retail pick up and delivery where possible, while Labatt Brewery sells its beers in local LCBO's, Beer Stores, and at the Labatt Retail Store at 153 Horton Street. It’s collaborations like these that enable small businesses to continue serving customers and allow the community to continue supporting local in a new, virtual way.
London is Stepping Up
Does your business want to get involved? Have an innovative idea? Let’s generate solutions together. Contact us today using the form at the bottom of this article.
