Have you mapped your business yet?

THE KerryOpenForBusiness initiative is for Kerry businesses to register their details with a new online directory. This has been ongoing for over three weeks to provide information about on-premises and online arrangements for customers as businesses begin to reopen under the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.

The interactive map for smartphones and computers allows customers to check what outlets have opened or are reopening in their area by clicking on their chosen location. There, they will find information about businesses near them which are now operating again and how their local businesses have adapted to the changed operating environment through online ordering, deliveries or other initiatives.

The directory, which contains the opening or reopening details for over hundreds of Kerry businesses, is now available on the Council website (www.kerrycoco.ie) and is available for public download to computers or smartphones. Businesses can still register their details with the Council over the coming weeks.

The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr. Niall Kelleher, welcomed the latest development: ‘ This is a great resource for customers to find out how and when their favourite local businesses will be opening. The #KerryOpenForBusiness campaign sends out a clear message – we are opening, and we are doing so safely,’ he said.

IN order for retail businesses to reopen successfully and resume trading again, they will need some basic cooperation from consumers. Over the coming weeks and months you may notice changes in the layout of shops – internally and externally – which are designed for your safety.

Just because trading has resumed doesn’t mean it’s the same as before. Social distancing protocols still apply and shop owners have gone to great lengths to apply subtle changes.

For example, many shops have lines marked outside the shop entrance at 2 metre intervals. You should stand at these markers and keep your distance at all times while queuing to enter shops and at checkouts.

Keep in mind that these simple safety measures and not a hostile way of ordering people around. You must show respect for these guidelines. They are there to protect you, fellow shoppers and shop owners.

It’s by adhering to the simple safety procedures that we stand a better chance of fast-tracking the recovery. Be aware of safety signs, hygiene products and anything else that is designed to minimise infection while you go about your business.