GEORGETOWN, Ky. (LEX 18 — While many businesses in Kentucky have had to close their doors because of COVID-19, others have changed their daily operations to stay afloat.
The Kentucky Retail Federation reports with some national retail chains closing consumers have been choosing locally owned spots, which brings more people to downtown areas like downtown Georgetown.
The co-owner of Cravens and Lewis Jewelers says they've been busier than before the pandemic.
"Some of the bigger chain jewelry stores are not doing their own repairs now. Our repairs are being very steady, very busy actually. Our average before was about 7 days, now we run 14 days," Shari Lewis said.
The Retail Federation Communications Director says 1,100 businesses across the state have had to close because of the pandemic.
"Retail leasing has become difficult, particularly in malls and things like that. You know, trying to make rent and things like that when you're only making half of your monthly sales," Steve McClain said.
Through the holiday season, many retailers are planning to keep their new online and social media sales. "A lot of stores have said we are going to accelerate and do that and a lot of them have been very successful because people have enjoyed the curbside pickup and the ordering ahead," McClain said.
