Local and small-scale food businesses have largely been able to stay open and adapt to new conditions during the coronavirus outbreak due, a new snapshot survey has found.
The survey of 102 small food enterprises in London found that 80 per cent were able to stay open, while 32 per cent reported an increase in demand. The companies questioned were members of one of two London-based local food networks – the Food Coops and London Food Link – and included cafes, producers, shops, markets and buying groups.
Findings from the survey, which was done between 6 April and 8 May, said that uncertainty and income fluctuation had made it difficult to plan for the future, but community networks have helped these small food businesses find solutions.
“Being able to be small and nimble and people-powered has worked to our advantage at this time. It’s vital that local and national governments support sustainable small businesses with affordable rents, enabling finance, and supportive regulation,” said Tom Steele of the Kentish Town Box Scheme
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