The Town of Banff has created sign templates that it will customize for any local organization to help clarify their available services, while emphasizing health and safety protocols are in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Town’s newly available “We’re Open” business signs let customers and clients know how to access services or goods from local establishments, such as by appointment, online shopping, delivery or curbside pick-up.
“Our businesses are the heart and soul of our town and our focus is to ensure they have the support and resources they need to get through this uncertain and challenging time,” said Mayor Karen Sorensen. “These new signs aim to communicate that although some doors may be closed, many businesses are still open in various capacities and ready to serve our residents, while maintaining health protocols to keep staff and customers safe.”
Many operations, such as medical clinics, offer by-appointment services. Other services, such as emergency dental treatment can be arranged by appointment. Some businesses that are not listed as essential services, such as retail, can continue to operate if they follow the health protocols set out by Alberta Health Services, including online and curbside or delivery services. Signage on doors about services will identify contact information.
The customized signs are meant to complement online communications such as business websites and Google profiles, and help people who commute through the community to be aware about available local services. Signs previously available to businesses that allow public access identify required controls such as physical distancing and prohibited access to people who are sick.
“Not all businesses have access to designers and printers in these challenging times, so the Town is offering this free service to remind people about approved health measures that are in place, and help encourage everyone to shop local and support Banff’s economy,” said Sorensen.
To acquire a sign, businesses can email communications@banff.ca with their logo and contact information and select the messaging they wish to use from the following options. The Town will then customize, print and distribute the signage for businesses to use in highly visible areas like front windows or doors.
Customized wording options for a “We’re Open” business sign include:
- Order online
- Curbside pick-up or delivery available
- Takeout or delivery only
- By appointment only
- Please contact us for availability
- Any other message
- Contact phone and web address
See a sample/template of the signs.
With the strong impact that COVID-19 is having on local businesses, the Town will continue to seek ways to offer support the local economy and find new measures to help Banff’s establishments navigate the challenges created by these uncertain times.
The Town lists open businesses at banff.ca/COVIDhelp.
Businesses that are open are required to help prevent the spread by using the health protocols approved by Alberta Health Services for everyone’s safety, available at alberta.ca/covid.
Please visit banff.ca/covid for COVID-19 information specific to the Town of Banff and Banff.ca/COVIDBusiness for supports available to businesses from the Town, the Province of Alberta and the Government of Canada.