Dear NBDA Members:

Just as you have been, the NBDA is closely monitoring world events as the news of this pandemic continues to unfold daily. To say that these are uncertain times would be the understatement of the year. The NBDA exists to bring retailers together to learn from one another and to support each other. I would encourage all of you to jump on the NBDA’s private retailer forum to follow discussions with fellow bicycle retailers as this continues to unfold in the coming days.

We want to share with you what we are hearing from retailers around the country…

Customer-facing:

• Messaging to customers regarding cleanliness efforts
• Promoting Pickup-at-store shopping and service drop-offs
• Alerting customers to any changes regarding store hours or closures.

Staffing:

• Cleaning protocols being put in place.
• Encouraged to wash hands frequently.
• Disinfecting incoming bikes, rentals, test ride bikes, etc.
• Distancing themselves from customers.
• Cleaning high touch point items frequently.
• Clarifying PTO policies with staff.
• Not feeling well… stay home.

Behind the scenes:

• Stay healthy!
• Watch the news and stay informed.
• Consult BRAIN’s compilation of information: BRAIN Article
• Join us on our private retailer forum to stay in touch with your peers.
  • If you are a member of the NBDA and not currently on the forum, you can request access here: https://nbdadealerforum.vbulletin.net/
• Call your top vendors (sales and credit). Keep them in the loop on what is happening in your store.
• Check your lease to see if you have a “Business Interruption Clause” in place.
• Talk to your business insurance agent to find out what coverage you might have.
• Investigate your state’s labor laws regarding furloughing employees.
• Review this list of cleaning protocols from the CDC: LINK

And finally, please remember that one of the best things about the NBDA is the relationships you can have with other retailers that are going through similar issues. I urge each of you -- if you have not already done so -- to “buddy-up” with a few other retailers. Having someone else to run things by can make a huge difference.

Sincerely,

Brandee Lepak
NBDA President