Behind every business, there are people. People that have families to support, children to feed, and bills to pay. Businesses all over the country are having to make hard decisions on whether to shut down and whether or not to fire employees
In a recent op-ed for Fox Business, Mark Hufford, a multi-store Chick-fil-A franchise owner, shared the toll that COVID-19 is taking on both their business and employees.
“On the grand scheme of things, the sustainability of a business like mine that specializes in selling chicken sandwiches and waffle fries may seem frivolous when compared to our nation’s war against an invisible, virulent enemy like COVID-19,” Hufford explained.
“Yet, behind every business, there are people – the workers who make it all happen and the customers who partake in the fruit of the effort. Small business is at the heart and soul of the American economy. Like a rising tide, the success of smaller proprietorships raises the fortunes of everyone else.”
Hufford explained that he has been placed in a position where he has to figure out how to keep his employees employed, but at the same time keep the customers safe.
“Some have wondered why small business owners like myself won’t just close up shop and shut down operations until the crisis has passed,” he pointed out.
In order to stay safe, they’ve closed their dining rooms, playroom areas, and have reduced their hours of operation.
“Through the leadership at Chick-fil-A, we have a shared vision — ‘To be the world’s most caring company,'” Hufford wrote.
It’s an inspiring message for people all over the country, but one that will be put to a test during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Through prayer and thoughtful consideration, Hufford came to a conclusion including three positive areas of focus, “that provide value to our guests, team, and community.”
- “First, we are committed and I would even say obsessive about adhering to all CDC, state and local guidelines.”
- “Second, given that we’re in the hospitality business, we’re doing our best to encourage people with a spirit of kindness, warm their hearts with a sincere smile and make a personal connection from afar that provides comfort – because making the most of the moments we have still matters, regardless of how perilous a season this might be.”
- “Third, we’re attempting to provide people with a sense of normalcy. People are eager for the familiar.”
Hufford’s leadership can work as an example for other businesses around the country right now.
“For me, personally, I have a social and moral and Christian responsibility to do all I can to care for each of them to the very best of my ability,” Hufford concluded.
