Why are street vendors feeling vulnerable after COVID, despite government loans
An examination of the concerns faced by street vendors despite financial aid from the government
- Lack of demand: Street vendors heavily rely on foot traffic and people gathering in public spaces. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people are staying at home, practicing social distancing, and avoiding crowded areas. This has led to a significant decline in customers for street vendors.
- Unpredictable income: With the decrease in demand, street vendors are experiencing an unpredictable and unstable source of income. They might not be able to make enough money to sustain their businesses and cover their expenses.
- Operational costs: Despite government loans, street vendors still have to deal with operational costs such as renting their stalls, buying produce, and paying utilities. These costs can be burdensome, especially when there is a lack of income.
- Competition from online platforms: During the pandemic, many people have turned to online shopping and food delivery services, resulting in increased competition for street vendors. This digital shift has made it difficult for street vendors to compete with the convenience and variety offered by online platforms.
- Health and safety concerns: Street vendors have to work in close proximity to others, increasing the risk of exposure to COVID-19. They may also have difficulty implementing necessary safety measures, such as providing hand sanitizers or ensuring social distancing in crowded areas.
Answered
a year ago