The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact across the world, forcing people to adapt and find new ways of living. For one small business owner in New York City, the pandemic threatened to end their business entirely.
However, through perseverance and determination, Skuby, a local sandwich shop, was able to survive and thrive despite the challenges. This is their journey of survival and hope in the face of adversity.
The Beginning of Skuby
Skuby was founded in 2001 by husband and wife duo, Mark and Sherri. Located in the heart of Staten Island, Skuby quickly became a local favorite for their delicious sandwiches and customer service.
With a focus on quality ingredients and listening to customer feedback, Skuby grew in popularity and became a staple in the community.
The Impact of COVID-19
When the pandemic hit in early 2020, Skuby, like many other small businesses, was forced to close their doors temporarily. However, the impact was felt far beyond just a temporary closure.
With a decrease in foot traffic and patrons, Skuby saw a significant decrease in revenue and profits. This left the future of the business uncertain and left Mark and Sherri wondering how they were going to make ends meet.
Adapting to the New Normal
Despite the challenges, Mark and Sherri were determined to keep Skuby alive. They quickly adapted to the new normal and pivoted the business to focus on takeout and delivery.
This meant a complete overhaul of their business model, from new packaging and marketing strategies to implementing new safety protocols for their staff and customers.
The Importance of Community Support
Throughout the pandemic, the Staten Island community rallied behind Skuby, showing their support in any way possible.
Whether it was leaving positive reviews, ordering takeout, or spreading the word on social media, the community proved to be a vital source of support for the business. Without the support and loyalty of the community, Skuby may not have been able to survive the pandemic.
An Uncertain Future
Even with the community support, the future of Skuby remained uncertain. As the pandemic continued to ravage the city and country, the industry as a whole faced immense challenges and uncertainty. However, Mark and Sherri refused to give up.
They continued to innovate and adapt, finding new ways to reach their customers and stay afloat.
A New Beginning
As the pandemic begins to subside and the country gradually returns to normal, Skuby finds itself on the precipice of a new beginning. Despite the hardships and challenges faced, the business emerged stronger than ever.
With a newfound appreciation for the value of community support and the resilience of small businesses, Skuby is poised for a bright future.
Conclusion
The story of Skuby is one of survival and hope, a testament to the strength and perseverance of small business owners. From the early days of the pandemic to the uncertainty of the future, Mark and Sherri refused to give up.
Through innovation, adaptation, and the unwavering support of their community, Skuby emerged stronger than ever before. As we move forward from the pandemic, the story of Skuby serves as a reminder of the importance of small businesses and the value of community support.