Businesses To Start Post COVID

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has forever changed our lives, including how we do business. Despite the temporary halt during the pandemic’s onset, more and more ventures have been bouncing back strong. 

That said, it’s a good time as any to seize the opportunity to offer products or services people need under the new normal. And if you’re thinking of starting a business to start post covid, you certainly won’t run out of excellent ideas. 

If you’re wondering what industries are projected to reign supreme in a post-pandemic world, here are a few options you might want to consider.

1. Online Merchandise

Online shopping might have been popular even before the pandemic. However, the threat of catching the virus has made eCommerce all the more relevant. In fact, a survey by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), online purchases rose throughout the pandemic. 

That said, if you’re looking for a business to start post covid, an eCommerce venture has never been as attractive as it is now.

According to a report, items that have been selling out from online shops during the pandemic include cleaning materials, thermometers, board games, baking supplies, fitness equipment, and home office supplies. 

Whether you’re offering essential needs like food and toiletries or miscellaneous items like gifts and hobby-related items, eCommerce is the way to go. 

2. Local Delivery

When the pandemic first broke out, people relied on deliveries for their needs. And now that they’ve come to appreciate the convenience of effortless shopping, the delivery industry will only flourish even more. 

Many are exploring the idea of offering “hyperlocal” delivery or catering to a certain niche. For instance, focusing on a specific service such as beauty products, pet supplies, or medical needs. This narrows your services to a specific product set, making you a go-to venture for things related to your brand focus.

3. Home Improvement

It may be cabin fever at work, but being stuck at home can push people to think of ways to improve their living space. A survey by Bank of America says over 7 out of 10 Americans tacked home improvement projects during the pandemic. 

The good news is, more projects are scheduled in 2021, so surely won’t be late to the party. Some of the products and services to consider are home office space and children’s playroom solutions. Many homeowners are also looking to extend their living space through outdoor amenities like patios. These projects allow them to enjoy the outdoors without having to brave crowded parks or public places. 

4. Home Workout and Health Tools

As mentioned from the UNCTAD survey above, fitness equipment was one of the best-selling items during the pandemic. Added to that, a survey says almost 6 out of 10 Americans aren’t leaning to renew their gym membership after the crisis.

For one, some aren’t comfy using the same gym equipment as other members with a virus going around. 

With more people trying to avoid outdoor exercise and fitness gyms, focusing on home workout is a good business to start post covid. Whether you’re leaning towards workout apps, gym equipment, or health products like meal plans, it’s best to strike while the iron is hot. 

5. Online Teaching

With face-to-face classes discouraged to prevent the spread of COVID, many people are turning to the internet for instruction. This presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs in the education and instruction sector. 

A report tells us that enrollment at Coursera swelled up to 640% higher from mid-March to mid-April compared to the same period in 2019. This only goes to show that massive open online classes or MOOCs will surely enjoy more prominence from hereon.

But online business opportunities aren’t limited to MOOCs. Learners are just as keen to attend webinars and online workshops just as long as they won’t have to step outdoors to learn.

The Takeaway

Here are the key factors to remember when brainstorming for a business to start post covid:

• Less to no contact. With social distancing at the front and center of policies implemented to curb the virus’s spread, it’s best to focus on ventures that offer products and services without requiring physical contact.
• Convenience. Even without state-mandated lockdowns in place, many people choose to limit going out to avoid exposure to the virus. That said, people now put a premium on products and services they can get right at their doorstep.
• Agility. The COVID-19 crisis taught us that the world could change without warning. In one snap, restaurant dine-ins became curbside pickups, and gym classes were held online. Even babysitters turned to Zoom to entertain kids! Your business model must be able to adapt to societal changes.

Without a doubt, the pandemic has caused a huge economic setback this year. But more than anything, it has pushed entrepreneurs to stretch their creativity and become more flexible to adapt to changing times.