Restore Chester County
Economic Action Steps — Auto
Including online and in person auto sales as well as auto repair and service, much of the auto industry remained open during pandemic shutdowns, being deemed an essential service. Although still open, the industry had to implement safety procedures and precautions, which sometimes caused drastic changes in operations and expenditures.
Current Auto Business Practices
The following practices are being implemented by various auto-related businesses around the county and nation to address COVID-19-related disruptions. These practices may be helpful for auto-related businesses not currently using them.
- Pivot toward online sales by investing in e-commerce infrastructure.
- Work with local press outlets to publish stories about safety measure that have been taken.
- Provide services by appointment only.
- Stagger shifts for office workers and utilize video conferencing for client and staff meetings.
- Provide employees with childcare voucher and connect them to available providers and/or Provide on-site childcare for employees.
- Offer delivery service for purchased vehicles.
- Allow customers to test vehicles without salesperson.
Actions to Support the Auto-related Industry
The following actions by governments, economic development organizations, trade organizations, and others would provide support to the auto-related industry during the current COVID-19 crisis.
- Provide technical assistance with social media/marketing and safety guideline compliance.
- Equip municipal officials with information to encourage local compliance with safety guidelines.
- Facilitate a safety 'self-certification' program that features consistent branding and signage.
- Provide regulatory assistance with relaxing service restrictions.
- Provide signage to assist small operators in enforcing COVID-19 safety compliance among clients.
To see recommendations for other industries, click on the industry link below:
