Free ‘Open for Business’ banners offered to essential Richmond businesses amid COVID-19 lockdown

0
3826
Richmond printing biz donating 'Open for Business' banners to boost local economy
Leftside Printing at 1418 Macdonald Ave. in Richmond has partnered with the Richmond Main Street Initiative to produce Open for Business signs for local essential businesses, such as eateries. (Photo by Mike Kinney)

By Kathy Chouteau

Richmond is open for business. That’s the message behind an effort by Richmond Main Street and Leftside Printing, who are teaming up to provide “Open for Business” banners to small businesses in Richmond.

The complimentary and customizable 2’x3’ banners are being offered in a limited amount as city businesses face the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Per Richmond Main Street, the offer kicks off Friday, April 10 and is extended to any “brick-and-mortar” Richmond business deemed essential and that is in “good standing” with the City of Richmond.

“I spoke with my wife, Gina, and even though we’re suffering too, we want to donate $2,000 worth of ‘Open for business’ banners to our local businesses,” said Diego Garcia, owner of Leftside Printing, which recently moved from its 23rd Street location to 1418 Macdonald Ave. in Richmond. “We are all in this together!”

The banners aim to bolster Richmond businesses during today’s daunting economic climate by providing a visible way to promote their businesses while also encouraging customers to shop safely and locally.

Richmond businesses wanting to request a complimentary banner should contact Leftside Printing at [email protected] or 510-965-9697. Businesses can preview banners here and downtown businesses can also download marketing graphics here, according to Richmond Main Street.

“I am extremely grateful for how small business leaders, like Diego, empower others despite being in the same boat,” says Vivian Wong, executive director of Richmond Main Street.

“It is precisely people like Diego and his family that give us great hope that we can help our small businesses rally together and weather this storm. My staff and I are doing our best to empower our business community with current resources and digital marketing, thanks to a grant from Wells Fargo.” 

Learn more about Leftside Printing’s services here and Richmond Main Street’s resources here.