Businesses Taking Leap Of Faith To Open New Stores Amid Pandemic Uncertainties

Despite many closure signs, and little immediate guidance from the state, some business owners are taking a leap of faith and opening up new storefronts.

In Pasadena, iconic Randy’s Donuts is also opening up a new store. Owner Mark Kelegian says they are also opening new stores in Costa Mesa and Torrance, despite some drop-off in business at his other drive-thru locations.

“I think it’s important to get us back to some sort of normalcy not had in a long time,” Kelegian told CBS Los Angeles.

On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom said new guidelines for reopening different economic sectors throughout the state will be announced on Friday, which will include more detailed timelines, scope, and expectations.

Pasadena leaders are hoping Newsom will give more guidance so other businesses can take additional steps toward reopening.

“Can you give us a timeline, tell us in this circumstance that these things will happen, and over the course of 2020 October 1, this will happen if these circumstances are met?” asked Pasadena Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Paul Little.

Meantime, coronavirus cases continue to rise across L.A. County and the state, but Kelegian is offering some advice to fellow business owners to take each day one step at a time.

“Try to be as patient as you can,” Kelegian said. “Keep the faith. Don’t give up hope. We will come back. Business will come back.”