Coronavirus update – the latest news from Yorkshire businesses
Leeds-based private hire company Arrow Cars has adapted to launch a brand-new food delivery business during the lockdown.
The enterprise, called Arrow Fresh, delivers locally sourced produce straight to customers’ doors.
David Richmond, CEO of Arrow Cars, said: “Whilst we knew we had to adapt in order to stay afloat due to the uncertainty surrounding lockdown restrictions, we realised that so many people were being forced to queue for long periods of time at supermarkets and shops, and that many people were too vulnerable to even leave their homes.
“Whilst some taxi firms started to offer supermarket click and collect, we saw a unique opportunity to go one step further – one that would support the people of Leeds and local farmers and food producers.”
From a standing start since 1 May, the venture has now supported 14 farmers and a further 11 local food suppliers to offer over 700 products through its new delivery service.
Louis Richmond, director of marketing & communications of Arrow Fresh, said: “The speed of growth and the way the team have worked to deliver Arrow Fresh has been incredible.
“Since only 1 May with one transactional website and social media, we have continued to grow our supplier base and customers week on week. We delivered to 500 Yorkshire homes in the first week alone.”
David Hird, of Yockenwaite Farm in Skipton, said: “It’s great to have the opportunity of working with such a forward-thinking company that has adapted their business model in such a difficult time.
“As a local producer, Arrow Fresh have helped us introduce new customers to our product range in a completely new area.”
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A stage lighting company has secured its future with the support of an emergency loan from Lloyds Bank.
Leeds-based Zig Zag Lighting provides lighting and production equipment for live music events and has provided the lighting systems for events like Slam Dunk Festival and, most recently, Jamie Cullum’s 2020 UK tour.
The business was hit hard by the Coronavirus shutdown.
With all of the tours and events Zig Zag was due to work on cancelled or rescheduled until 2021, the company was left facing major cashflow issues and was forced to furlough employees and let down dozens of freelancers who had hoped to work on the shows.
The company’s managing director, Neil Hunt, was able to secure a six-figure loan through the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS). The funding allows the business to cover the cost of rescheduling work and pay for maintenance of equipment and premises.
Hunt said: “I started Zig Zag Lighting back in 1985 and we’ve been running successfully for decades. Nothing prepared me for the impact of Coronavirus.
“This should be the busiest time of the year for us and instead we’re facing a completely empty summer schedule.
“Not only will this new money cover our overheads but it’ll mean we can come out of the pandemic in a strong position, ready to bring lighting magic to concerts once again.”
Gary Whitaker, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Coronavirus has had a huge impact on the entertainment industry and on businesses within its supply chain.
“Zig Zag Lighting is facing significant uncertainty on when it can resume operations but Neil and the team have their sights set on better times ahead.
“We’re committed to supporting companies just like this one throughout the Coronavirus crisis, helping them tackle immediate challenges and prepare for the future.”
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Businesses in Bradford have been urged to make sure they check and act on the latest Government COVID-19 guidance before reopening later this month.
The advice has come from Bradford Council. The Government has announced that non-essential retail businesses will be allowed to reopen on Monday 15 June, but only if it is safe to do so and when they have been made COVID-secure.
Other sectors may be allowed to reopen on 4 July but only if it is safe to do so and will be subject to restrictions designed to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.
Bradford Council says it is particularly important every business understands how to work safely to reduce the risk of passing on the virus before re-opening.
And it says businesses that have remained open may also need to make further changes as the economy gradually re-opens.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford’s portfolio holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “It’s vitally important everyone helps keep economic recovery as safe and sustainable as possible.
“This means carefully following the official advice around distancing and hygiene. If we do this properly then it could help to prevent a second wave of COVID-19 infections.”
