Our Focus During the Coronavirus Outbreak: You

At this time of year, as I write the column for the first week of April, I typically address issues such as metrics for the year. Or I address the upcoming annual conference. Or I address public policy. This April column will be different than those columns.

ABI members are dealing with a global pandemic that is challenging organizations in completely new ways. Maintaining health and safety is the first and most important goal. Following that, how does a company serve its customers at such a time? In addition to challenges related to health and safety, what general business challenges are ABI members facing? Supply chain, cash flow, operations; certainly all of these are impacted.

Here is what we are focused on at ABI. Of course we are working to keep our own employees safe and healthy. Employees who can work remotely are doing so.  Outside visitors to the ABI office are prohibited. All ABI events and travel are cancelled for at least one more month.

But serving ABI members is always our goal and our focus. Very early on in this crisis, the association created a COVID-19 webpage to provide resources to help you manage the impact of the disease on your company. Multiple teleconferences and messages have been provided to help you address issues such as health, safety, unemployment, business continuation and other issues. Direct member calls and connecting you with state officials and legislators has led to other support.

And ABI members have been busy doing what they do best: helping Iowa. Many of you have altered your normal business practices to manufacture personal protective equipment or other items to help fight the virus. Or you are providing new services and/or information to help clients and customers. Or making donations to local institutions in the form of equipment or financial assistance.

All we can say is thank you. Thank you for all you are doing. And if you need ABI in any way, please call on us. In the meantime, our wish is for your continued health and safety and success. Again, thank you.