The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce recently surveyed 820 business owners in the province about the current state of business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some key findings brought up by the survey which was conducted between April 17-21 include:

  • 97% of businesses say they've been impacted, with 96% saying they've felt significant negative impacts.
  • The majority of businesses surveyed have lost 75-90% of revenue.
  • Retail and restaurants have seen the most dramatic number of layoffs and loss of revenue.
  • 31% said they are not accessing government implemented support programs, but the vast majority have, or will be using the supports available.
  • There was some frustration over the amount of time it took for details on support programs to be released, as well as frustration behind not being able to quickly see the benefits of programs made available.
  • Respondents are concerned about staff, customers, and sustainability once restrictions are lifted, saying many want to open but don't have the staff to do so. 
  • 5% had to permanently lay off staff
  • 35% say they've had to temporarily lay off staff
  • Over 20% say they have not laid off staff and are not accessing support
  • Over 50% of those surveyed say they hope the economy is opened soon, but only if done so in a safe manner backed up by credible sources

CEO of the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce, Rob Clark, said many of the respondents were happy with the current support that was released by both the

Premier Scott Moe and Rob Clark federal and provincial governments, and many were pleased with the changes that were made to include more businesses.

"Every time the government brought out a program, they lay it out on the table and then they fill in all the gaps. What their changes to initial plans have done is make a lot more businesses included in searching out and getting support money. They're moving things around to get as many businesses as possible involved with the funding."

Locally, the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce has been holding a number of 'think-take' information sessions, helping out local businesses access different support, information, and help that is available to them. Clark says they've gone very well and that lots of different businesses have been getting involved.

"We started out with 35, and now we're at 45 or 50. Its been unbelievable. The input and the outtake, the information that they're getting, it's all dependent on their success, hence why they're all coming back.. There's more coming on board and they're all coming with great ideas. You can tell that they're engaged now."

With the government of Saskatchewan releasing their 5 phase plan to reopen the province, many businesses owners are feeling a sense of cautious optimism. 

"This is like Christmas for them again. There's some excitement, there's some "I can survive if I get by this little bit", though everyone realizes things won't be normal for a while. There's a lot of gamers and resilient businesses in Moose Jaw. Everyone wants to survive and get a piece of our economy. I'm very, very, very proud of the group we've been working with."

Clark says while its still going to be some time before most businesses can open up again, most are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.