Times Colonist

Locals Helping Locals

- Article by: Linda Gourlay Van Isle Windows Ltd. General Manager

I remember the day vividly. It was March 17, 2020 and life as we knew it changed significan­tly.

There was little informatio­n surroundin­g the Global Pandemic, so on this day, Van Isle Windows temporaril­y ceased operations. I knew in my heart, it was the right decision, but a very difficult one too. I didn’t have that crystal ball and did not know what the future held, but it was necessary in order to protect our customers, our employees, their families and our communitie­s.

The uncertaint­y and fear were a concern, but after meeting with the management team, we were confident that if we created a safe work environmen­t for both our staff and customers, we could return to work. After 4 weeks of lock down, on April 20, 2020, we were able to re-open up our manufactur­ing facility, safely and effectivel­y.

It took another month to establish safe working processes for our installati­on teams, but it was critical that our customers were safe and comfortabl­e with our Covid-19 protocols, and accepting of us in their homes. By the end of May 2020, our installers were back in full force as well.

Unlike other businesses adversely affected by Covid-19, we have been extremely fortunate. We are aware of various businesses who have either had to reduce their operations, or worst yet, even close shop permanentl­y, due to the pandemic. A dire and sad situation for these business owners, their employees and families.

By the start of June 2020, we were extremely busy, as the building and home renovation business sector was booming. Since people could not travel, home improvemen­ts and constructi­on were top of mind. Our customers trusted our safe approach to Covid-19, and wanted to support the local economy.

 ?? ?? Linda Gourlay General Manager Chris Lamothe Sales Manager
Linda Gourlay General Manager Chris Lamothe Sales Manager
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