As states start to re-open their economies, all companies are trying to figure out, how do I ready my business environment to deal with COVID-19. At Global Industrial we asked how we could help customers and in April launched our R3 – Restore, Return, Rebound initiative to empower the return to work. We repositioned our assortment and provided the content and knowledge customers need to open up and operate their businesses. 

To help us further understand our customers’ views and needs as they return to work in a COVID-19 environment, we recently conducted a survey.

Here are a few stats that stood out to us that were collected from nearly 500 responses:

• More than half (55%) of the respondents have established a back to work plan, while 26% have not and 19% are in the process of forming one.
• In regards to how have employees adopted to new safety procedures and protocols, 69% are onboard with 12% showing resistance.
• Almost a third highlighted customer interaction as the top concern of re-opening their operation, followed by employee distancing (21%), facility cleaning/sanitation (15%) and PPE (11%).
• 49% of respondents plan on limiting customer on-site capacity as a way to ensure safety with 33% launching no-touch/contactless procedures.
• Cleaning supplies were one of the easiest PPE related products for companies to source while hand sanitizers were the most difficult. Surprisingly masks were rated as relatively easy to source.
• Respondents expect to make additional investments related to COVID-19 in high traffic areas such as break rooms (23%), lobbies/common areas (21%) and cubicles/office space (21%).

The survey results highlight a focus on planning, new procedures and keeping employees and customers safe. These objectives align with the R3 program’s phased approach. First, restore your environment. Second, bring your associates back or return. And last, rebound in sales and service.