Immediate impact on small businesses; layoffs and wage cuts loom elsewhere

(FLINT, Mich. – March 24, 2020)  The negative effects of the global coronavirus pandemic on businesses in Flint and Genesee County is clear and will be more pronounced with the latest executive order by Gov. Whitmer to temporarily suspend in-person operations for the next three weeks with ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’. Nearly two-thirds of local businesses are already experiencing quantifiable impacts to their operations, according to the findings of a recent survey by the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce.

Some businesses reported sales declines of 30-50 percent since the public health crisis erupted in Michigan in mid-March.

In response, the Flint & Genesee Chamber has stepped up efforts to support the local business community while serving as an information clearinghouse for the latest developments during this unprecedented shock to the economy.

“It's clear from the data that the situation was deeply troubling a week ago. I'm certain conditions are continuing to decline for many of our businesses,” said Chamber CEO Tim Herman (left). “We want all of our business members to know that we are here for them.”

For the full news release, click here.

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About Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce
The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce (www.flintandgenesee.org) is a premier business membership organization unlike most chambers of commerce. In addition to traditional member services, our responsibility includes serving as the lead economic development agency for Flint & Genesee, marketing tourism, youth programs, and leadership development and business training.