The latest surge of COVID-19 cases and new CDC guidelines are causing major concerns for small businesses in North San Diego County. As the Omicron variant brought record high positive case numbers and the CDC guidelines shifted, community small businesses in Vista have pivoted again to continue their operations safely.
According to the latest CDC guidance, an asymptomatic person who tests positive for Coronavirus will now have to quarantine for five days, instead of 10. The CDC recommends that after those five days, the person should wear a mask around people for another five days. In December 2021, the County of San Diego instated a mask mandate indoors regardless of vaccine status.
These new guidelines and high case numbers are unsettling for both employers and employees who are unsure of how to keep their doors open and keep staff safe.
Tali Burton is a Marine, father, husband and local Vista business owner, who operates a 60,000 sq. foot baking company in Vista, Burton Enterprises, and he also owns 12 franchises of Dunkin Donuts throughout the county. During the pandemic, Burton has been able to keep the doors open on all his businesses but now is learning to navigate the latest impacts.
“Right now, we are being hit harder than ever before in this crisis. When the pandemic first started, we had a band-together attitude. But now with the increase in cases and lack of staff, things are different and difficult,” said Burton.
Burton noted that since the pandemic began, he has seen nearly a 95% employee turnover rate amongst some of his franchise stores, and he observed that the customer service work environment has changed for his employees.
“We are stuck at the horns of the dilemma. After nearly two years of this, we can’t ignore that people are tired. Staff shortages are making it hard to remain open consistently,” continued Burton.
Fellow Vista business owner, Andrew Shak, owner and head chef of Shak’s Bistro has also had his share of challenges. Shak’s Bistro is a two-generation family business that began in Carlsbad 32 years ago and moved to Vista in 2018.
“If I could sum up the last two years in one word it would be ‘unexpected,’” said Shak. “It is a blessing that this is a family business because our family was the only thing keeping the restaurant’s doors open.”
Recently, Shak’s announced they were decreasing their operating hours due to a shortage of staff members.
“The community is really strong in Vista. We are so grateful for our customers because they keep the doors open. But we ask all to remember that restaurants and their employees need extra patience and understanding during this time,” said Shak.
How can we help?
Choosing to eat, drink and shop locally and continue to patronize businesses is what keeps these businesses open. But there are other ways to show support, including understanding and being kind to local businesses as well. Here are a few ideas of how residents can continue championing local businesses in 2022.
Share local businesses’ content online: Repost their latest hours update or a delectable photo of a delicious dish. Help local businesses expand their network of customers and get the word out about their services.
Spare a little extra for the tip: If possible, tack a few extra dollars onto your next tip. This small gesture is a simple way to show gratitude to the employees working and help them out financially.
For takeout, call directly instead of using a third-party food delivery service: Third-party food delivery services are convenient, but there is often a fee passed on to the business, up to 30% in some cases. Save money on your takeout’s total and spare the restaurant the extra charge, and simply call the restaurant directly for pickup. They might offer their own delivery services too.
Practice patience and pack in extra time to account for any staff shortages: Wait times might be longer due to staff shortages, so be aware, courteous and plan accordingly.
Be nice: Remember to respect everyone and practice kindness. Restaurants and shops are places to enjoy yourself and gather.
