More than 35% of Michigan’s private-sector businesses have been closed by government-ordered lockdowns and restrictions. | Pixabay
More than 35% of Michigan’s private-sector businesses have been closed by government-ordered lockdowns and restrictions. | Pixabay
According to a report in Michigan Capitol Confidential, the COVID-19 pandemic has shut down almost 36% of the state’s small businesses since January of this year, with the possibility that many will not reopen.
These statistics come from San Francisco-based marketing firm Womply. The numbers showed that Michigan’s rate of small business closure is higher than the national average of almost 29%.
The tally shows that more than one-third of small businesses have closed their doors because of the pandemic and the government's response.
Additionally, the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association says that 5,000 restaurants and hotels could face permanent closure, unless state lockdown mandates are eased. All restaurants are currently closed to indoor dining until at least Friday, Jan. 15.
Several months ago, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the state was doing everything it could to assist businesses to survive the pandemic.
“Over the past six months, small business owners who have spent their entire lives building their businesses have made incredible sacrifices to protect their communities and our brave frontline workers from COVID-19,” Whitmer said, according to Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “I know it hasn’t been easy, which is why we’re working around the clock to provide support for our small business owners.”
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