The Future of Experiential Businesses: Adapting to a New Reality
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is clear: experiential businesses must evolve to survive. With crowded spaces posing an immediate risk to patrons, innovative solutions are emerging to ensure safety while maintaining profitability.
Rethinking Outdoor Spaces
In response to the crisis, cities like New York and Los Angeles are closing streets to create more outdoor seating areas for restaurants. This shift towards “open-air restaurants” may become the new norm, offering a safer and more enjoyable experience for customers. As winter approaches, businesses will need to find alternative solutions to maintain this momentum.
Digital Options for Hard-to-Find Items
In Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, a new delivery service called Asian-veggies.com is revolutionizing the way people shop for Asian produce and pantry items. This convenient digital platform reduces the risk of in-person shopping, allowing customers to access hard-to-find items from the comfort of their own homes.
Drive-Thru Experiences
With summer fairs and festivals cancelled, some states are turning to drive-thru experiences to bring the fun to customers. From New York to California, Missouri, Florida, and Ohio, these mini drive-thrus offer a safe and convenient way to enjoy fair food favorites.
Carhop Service Revival
In a nod to the past, some restaurants are reverting to carhop service roots. Mel’s Drive-In in LA has adopted this model, where customers order and receive their meals from the comfort of their own cars. This nostalgic approach may become a staple of the future dining experience.
Capped Delivery Service Fees
In a move to support struggling restaurants, Los Angeles has capped delivery service fees charged by third-party companies like Uber, Doordash, and Postmates. This change benefits restaurant owners, allowing them to retain more revenue and invest in their businesses.
Rethinking Office Spaces
As remote work becomes the new norm, businesses are reimagining office spaces to prioritize employee safety. With companies like Facebook and Twitter embracing virtual offices, the future of work may look very different. This shift could also lead to a more decentralized workforce, breaking free from expensive industry-dense cities.
In this brave new world, experiential businesses are adapting to ensure survival and even thrive. By embracing innovative solutions and prioritizing safety, these industries may emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
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