Signs in windows and doorways throughout Salem are alerting residents to changing business hours and access limits as life adjusts to pandemic times. (Ron Cooper/Salem Reporter)
The beginning of 2021 was supposed to bring a fresh start from the disastrous 2020. But for Oregon businesses, at least, 2021 has meant more of the same.
Nearly a third of Oregon businesses told the U.S. Census Bureau’s Small Business Pulse Survey that they continued to experience significant negative effects from the pandemic, with many reporting reduced capacity as well as a hard time getting supplies. The survey was conducted during the week of Jan. 4 and was mentioned on the Oregon Employment Department’s blog.
Another 43% of businesses reported that the pandemic was having a moderate effect on them. More than one in five said it had little impact and a small number reported positive effects. Nearly half of Oregon businesses that responded to the survey expect it will take another six months for businesses to get back to usual.
-Jake Thomas
