Business owners remain cautious as Phase 2 continues and Phase 3 reopening plans announced

Many Saskatchewan businesses are worried about their cash flow, taking on more debt and long-term financial consequences.

Phase 2 of the province’s reopening plan took effect on Tuesday. Phase 3 plan is scheduled for June 8.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business released statistics Thursday indicating that about 39 per cent of Saskatchewan businesses are now open, compared with just 30 per cent one month ago.

“It’s going in the right direction,” says CFIB’s Western Canada Vice President Marilyn Braun-Pollon. “(The number of open businesses) is finally larger than businesses that are fully closed.

“While it is good news that more firms are beginning to open right across the country and in Saskatchewan as well, it’s important to keep in mind that 60 per cent of businesses remain fully or partially closed due to COVID.”

The CFIB welcomes the news about the Phase 3 reopening, including the number of businesses ready to begin operating again.

Still, at this time, according to a CFIB survey that includes questions regarding why some businesses haven’t fully reopened, Braun-Pollon explains there are some serious concerns.

“They are government-mandated closures, so about 50 per cent of our members cite that,” she said. “Another about 37 per cent cite concerns over the health and safety of staff and customers, and then about 34 per cent say the top reason for not fully reopening is that sales are too low to make it worthwhile to fully open.”

Braun-Pollon adds that the CFIB has information packages and advice for any business needing help with a new plan.

The organization is also encouraging consumers to visit and support local stores. She also hopes customers are a bit more understanding.

“We encourage them to be patient as businesses are readjusting to a new normal, a new reality,” she said. “So things may just take a little bit longer.

“It may be a messy recovery. I know some employees are nervous to return to work and we know some protective equipment may be difficult to find. Employers may not be sure of what all the rules are. Our advice is we all have a role to play … We’re in new territory.”

Nationally, just under one-third of businesses, or about 33 per cent, are fully open compared with just 21 per cent one month ago. Alberta was at the high end, with 47 per cent of businesses fully open, while Newfoundland and Labrador was at the low end with 22 per cent.