Staff at all the businesses received training and protocols were developed for cleaning/sanitizing, employee health screenings, mask wearing, and how to respond if an employee has a positive COVID-19 test. “(The pandemic) pushed us to be more systems-based, so that challenge has turned into a positive impact for us.”Īll of the business owners said making sure their employees and customers felt safe was top priority.
“It’s our first year in business and we’re trying to learn things,” Ruiz said. To prepare for reopening they spaced out equipment, scheduled training blocks, and implemented new cleaning procedures. During the closure, Ruiz and his team developed their own app, which would better prepare them for opening, scheduling and provide other benefits for gym members. With gyms not allowed to open until phase 3, Ruiz faced a long closure. The city made it very easy for us to get our permitting.” “But we didn’t have much of a choice … we put up a nice setup and it’s been awesome hearing the feedback from customers. “I always thought it was a crazy idea,” Petrou said of outside dining. It has turned into a silver lining in a challenging time. Though knowing takeout alone would not be sustainable, the restaurant received a grant from the City of Haverhill to support outdoor dining – something they had not had before. Krueger Flatbread was able benefit from takeout business early on coupled with a PPP Loan through the Small Business Administration. “We had to move quickly and swiftly and implement a lot of changes in our plan,” Pineau said, adding that when they opened they could only offer curbside pickup and could not have customers in the store. A recording of the program can be found on YouTube.įor Pineau, launching her business in the middle of the pandemic – they had a small grand opening in May – meant added The virtual event was moderated by Lauren Brenner, president of Human Resources for Amplified Insurance. Joining Pineau to share their experience as local business owners were Anthony Ruiz, owner of The Compound Gym, and Jason Petrou, general manager of his family’s restaurant Krueger Flatbread. Pineau made the remarks as part of a UMass Lowell Innovation Hub webinar titled “Building Back Up: Realities of (Re) Opening Downtown Haverhill.” The event was co-hosted by and the Greater Haverhill Chamber. Don’t wait for the perfect time,” said Caroline Pineau, owner and CEO of Stem, Haverhill’s first retail marijuana establishment. We learn and experiment with the latest products, techniques and events to remain on the cutting-edge of the industry and look forward to sharing our experience with you.Three local entrepreneurs offered their advice to those who are looking to start or grow their business during the pandemic – keep going. Our team is knowledgeable and approachable. We focus on quality, variety, and purity and strive to guide you through your cannabis journey. We are committed to procuring the highest quality cannabis products available. Thank you! Be proud!Īs Cannabis Enthusiasts, our mission is to provide premium cannabis products to all customers from first-time shoppers to experienced consumers. As an educated, responsible adult cannabis user, YOU help to improve public perception about the cannabis plant and the people who use it. We believe adults have the right to use cannabis for whatever reason they choose, as a personal lifestyle choice or option for wellness. We are committed to doing our share to further the cause. It takes a community! We are grateful to all those who have worked to get us here. Stem is a proud supporter of the cannabis movement.