With most of the country shut down for over a month, massive job losses, and the beginning of a deep recession, we know that just about every frozen yogurt shop is suffering. We wanted to share how the COVID-19 outbreak has impacted one frozen yogurt shop.
We’re grateful and excited to share the experiences of Carline Dickens, the owner of Swirl Bliss in Baldwin, NY. Swirl Bliss started 7 years ago and is independently owned. Located in Long Island, Nassau County, the shop is in an area that’s seen a large number of COVID-19 cases (nearly 34,000 cases as of 4/25/20, the highest count outside of New York City).
Swirl Bliss is open year-round. In addition to frozen yogurt, they offer acai bowls, smoothies, protein shakes and other items.
On March 17, Swirl Bliss suspended dine-in service. Delivery, takeout and curbside pickup were offered until March 24.
The decision to close the store
“We closed our store for the safety of my staff and family. We have been closed since March, when Governor Cuomo shut down all non-essential businesses. Although we could have stayed open, business was so slow in March that it wasn’t worth the risk.”
Sources of support during the pandemic
“We applied for the SBA loan and PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) but haven’t gotten any word yet. Applying for SBA and PPP wasn’t too difficult. I applied through our bank; they required paperwork that was easy to access. According to the reports, the turnaround was supposed to be 3 weeks.”
“We are members of the chamber of commerce. They have provided the information that everyone is discussing about the SBA loan and PPP. I’m hoping that we will get some help with the second round of the PPP.”
Response to the outbreak
“We recently signed up for our coupons to show up on the back of local supermarket receipts but with the pandemic here, I’m not sure if will drive people to the store (Swirl Bliss). I will think of another way from to use the coupon.”
“We’re also looking into offering ordering through our reward app and increasing the use of the app. We plan to promote the app through our Facebook and Instagram pages and spread the word to our chamber of commerce, churches, and other small businesses.”
Current situation & future outlook
“We love our local businesses and community. Baldwin is made up of a lot of small businesses. Without federal help, our community would really suffer. If we don’t get help from the SBA loan and PPP, we may not come back at all.”
“Realistically, we need the funding to catch up on the rent, utilities, marketing and to pay our staff.”
“Our landlord recently sent us a letter requesting rent. I can’t even understand his logic right now.”
“We are considering open back up in May as soon as it warms up. We are also considering changing from self-service to full service, at least with the toppings bar. I’m not sure when and if we go back to some normalcy, whether self-serve businesses will even survive.”
