Changes: Stevens Point businesses adapt to Safer at Home measures
By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer
PORTAGE COUNTY – Businesses across the county are working to maintain clientele, as Safer at Home measures continue throughout the state. While the ever-changing landscape of the COVID-19 virus shifts, local businesses are doing all they can to continue offering their services to the public.
Digital shopping options
Agora – Local Makers Market on Main Street has shifted its product sales primarily to online shipments.
“As a brick and mortar with minimal online purchasing prior, this change in life has definitely made an impact,” explained Cara Adams, owner of Agora. “We closed our doors to the public on March 17 and immediately began placing items on our underutilized webstore. With our diverse product selection, shipping has been a challenge.”
Adams also offers an in-person pickup system with no human interaction. The local entrepreneur noted that business had slowed dramatically since the shutdowns.
“It has most definitely slowed for me. I get orders, which I’m grateful for, but nothing compared to when my sales floor was open,” Adams explained. “I don’t know how long this will last or what the other side will look like with consumer spending.”
The shop features locally made items by artisan crafters. Adams noted that she couldn’t pay the crafters until their items are sold.
“For my store, purchasing goods is huge,” Adams explained. “I can’t pay my makers until their items (are) sold. So to spread the love around, I encourage all to purchase items versus gift cards when you need them.”
For more information on Agora, visit https://agora.ricoconsign.com.
Creating fitness alternatives
Staff at 212 Fitness also closed their doors to the public on March 17. The local gym and health center is now focusing on online content to keep locals active and engaged.
“We’re working hard to create as much at-home content as possible,” said Caitlin Sparling, 212 member engagement manager.
The team has created an online livestream workout sessions for locals. The Virtual Quarantine Bootcamp: Sweat Against COVID-19 program started on March 20, and is an ongoing effort to keep residents fit during the pandemic.
“Participants can expect a challenging 30-minute workout using body weight and household objects,” Sparling said.
Personal trainer Jordan Smith hosts the low-cost online classes, with sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays 11:30 a.m. – noon.
The business also offers video-on-demand sessions as another means to stay connected with the community throughout the shutdowns.
To learn more about 212 Fitness and their programs, visit www.212fitnessclub.com/news/co-vid19-update.
Tell the Gazette how your local business has adapted with the COVID-19 changes in Portage County; contact Taylor J. Hale at [email protected] with Portage County news and information.