Week of May 18th 2020

  To all members,   This week we saw some retail stores re-opening their doors to the public with new safety measures in place, while other shops, restaurants and services continued on with take-out, curb-side pick up, delivery, online classes, phone consultations & online shopping.   We are all still trying to navigate our way through the “new normal” and I want to acknowledge how difficult this has been for many of you.  Some of you are busier than ever, working to fulfill orders with fewer staff on hand to help, others are unable to work due to mandated closures and struggling to find a way forward.  Wherever you are, please reach out if we can help in some way by pointing you to the right government or business resources, connecting you with some digital marketing help, or even just to chat.  We’re always happy to hear from you and welcome suggestions on how we can do better!   There is lots of news to share this week but I’m going to lead with TWO good news stories!  

Shop Downtown Orangeville

First, the launch of Shop Downtown Orangeville earlier this week!   We are really pleased with how our online marketplace has come together and excited that over 20 shops/services have come on board so far!  Please take a moment to browse www.shopdowntownorangeville.ca and get in touch with us if you think your business could benefit from participating. Please note that there are 2 ways to participate:
  1. Create a shop profile and sell your products/services/ menu items on shopdowntownorangeville.ca  (this is a great option if you are not currently selling online).  Pay only 3% per transaction, we cover all monthly fees.
  2. Create a shop profile and link to your existing online shop (this is a great option if you already have a successful online shop).  This option is totally free, we cover all monthly fees.
Either option allows you to reach more customers, raise your brand awareness, highlight specific products, and be a part of the Downtown Orangeville online community in a new way.  We will be promoting the online marketplace as a way to shop Downtown Orangeville from home and support local businesses conveniently & safely too!      

Farmers' Market

Second, the Health Board and Town of Orangeville have approved a modified version of the Orangeville Farmers' Market!  The Market is scheduled to begin on Saturday, May 30th in the parking lot across from Town Hall.  For the time being, this modified Market will serve as a pick-up hub for online orders only, but we hope that as things improve, we can move to a more traditional market shopping experience.  The Orangeville Farmers’ Market store is now open and orders can be placed here:  https://www.localline.ca/orangeville-farmers-market.  

PPE

Some of you have asked for information about how to obtain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Signage for your business.  The Town of Orangeville has compiled a list of local PPE suppliers here: https://www.orangevillebusiness.ca/ppe-suppliers/ . Public Health has a great list of signs and posters here: https://www.wdgpublichealth.ca/your-health/covid-19-information-workplaces-and-living-spaces/signs-and-posters?fbclid=IwAR1MNqhyQgjSgSpgYDkRE2UahQHjgrHFiywTBAPUCeNZcwh2mFjqokWSGwc   We recommend that you also post a notice with specific guidelines for your place of business.   How many people are allowed in the store at one time?  Is there a sanitizing station?  Where?  Are masks required?  Clear signage makes it easier for your customers to follow the rules & ensures everyone’s safety.  

Free Digital Marketing Support

Just a reminder that the OBIA, in partnership with Green Monkey Creative, is offering FREE DIGITAL MARKETING SUPPORT for your business.  Green Monkey can help you with any questions you have regarding social media, websites, online ads, etc.  How do I update my google business listing?  How often should I post to Facebook and Instagram?  What types of things should I be posting?  How do I create a consistent look for my brand? Green Monkey will give you an hour of help and advice, and more time may be available depending on how many businesses would like to take advantage of the program.  Please don’t miss out on this great opportunity!   Call or email Green Monkey directly to book: phone: 519-307-7900  / email: hello@greenmonkeycreative.com  

Parking

Now that more businesses are open and the good weather is upon us, please be kind to your business neighbours by making room for their customers to park.  Please ask your employees to use the parking lots instead of on-street parking.  

OBIA Board of Management Applications

The volunteer OBIA Board of Management is currently accepting applications to fill vacant volunteer Director positions.  If you are interested in applying, please contact Alison at info@downtownorangeville.ca for more information.  Information about OBIA Board of Management/Task Force/Committee meetings  can be found here: https://downtownorangeville.ca/obia-info/members/.   Enjoy your weekend & stay safe!