“There’s a lot more pick up and delivery now and less contact with clients but that has actually created more work for us,” he said.
Wael says he is thankful to still be operating and that he hasn’t had to lay off any staff.
“Some businesses have completely shut even with the government assistance which isn’t that much,” he said.
“It’s like if you’ve got a million-dollar bill, they are giving you $15 to go towards it; it is simply not enough.
“We are just keen for the lockdown to end.”
Lucy and George Trippas of Revesby’s Hair Appeal and Beauty Connection also can’t wait for the lockdown to end.
“We are concerned for our older clients because coming in to have their hair done was a social outing for them so we are calling them regularly just to keep in touch,” Lucy said.
Celebrating the 33rd anniversary of their business, George is up for Businessperson of the Year in the local business awards as well as a national Champion of Champions Award.
“So good things are still happening,” Lucy said.
Maria’s Fresh Flowers of Padstow haven’t been booked for any weddings lately but are still doing okay with home deliveries.
“We’re one of the lucky ones working in the florist industry as people are still sending flowers,” Maria said.
Al Aseel manager Ahmad Harb said that as well as switching to online orders with their restaurants, they have been pushing their online retail business, Mazati.com.au, supplying a premium range of gourmet and frozen products to supermarkets.
“People need to innovate and think outside the box; the sky’s the limit,” he said.
