Jimbo’s…Naturally!

Organic Food San Diego

As we enter into week 16 of the SARS2 COVID-19 outbreak, potential silver linings are starting to emerge. With new cases slowing in comparison to rates of increase. The “Flattening of the curve” could be happening. What is important now is to continue practicing preventive measures to keep things trending down. For the most reliable and up to date information about SARS2 COVID-19 visit the CDCs website.

Local business stepping up

Jimbo’s Naturally is a grocery store that provides our community with an incredible selection of organic products as well as fresh and local produce. “The thought to close their doors in a time of need was never considered” says Kelly Hartford (Jimbo’s director of marketing). I recently sat down to a phone interview with Kelly; to discuss what Jimbo’s is doing to adapt to the fluid situation they are facing with this pandemic. I was very appreciative for the time she had set aside to chat with me. In close to 30 years of experience in the industry she has never seen anything like this.

Staying safe while shopping

Jimbo’s has done a great job with providing:

• Signage and markings for safe social distancing in the store.
• Cleaning supplies to disinfect carts and baskets.
• Plexiglass protecting employees at checkouts.
• Limiting amount of customers in the store at any giving time

and the list goes on. With all these efforts made on behalf of the staff members and consumers. I wanted to know what the consumer could do to help the employees working during these stressful times. As well as making the customer to customer shopping experience positive and safe. 

Things to remember while shopping

Kelly mentioned 3 things, that a shopper can do to make shopping safe and enjoyable during this COVID issue:

1. Bring your patience: “Normal” has been temporarily suspended and for the time being things might take a little longer than what some people are used to. But we are all facing the same inconvenience so a little patience can go a long way!
2. Make a list: This is something I am guilty of never doing. But having a list will reduce the amount of time spent in the store. Spending a little less time in the store will allow people outside to get in quicker to do their shopping.
3. Only touch what you want to buy: Obviously the less physical contact we have with one another is the best way to suppress this SARS2 outbreak.

3 such rudimentary things but sometimes that is what will make the biggest impact. With 3 things being so simple, why wouldn’t you do them?

Supply and demand

Jimbo’s distribution chain has remained strong. While they are still facing issues with some products like toilet paper, it can be hit or miss. Jimbo’s does such an amazing job sourcing produce from local farms. They have had no issue keeping a bountiful selection of organic fruits and vegetables on the shelves. Kelly stated, “Building relationships with our partners has always been at the forefront for Jimbo’s” and “in times like these, our vendors are there and they have our backs whenever possible!” Supporting local sustainable products over the years is definitely paying off during this time of need. 

Community

I did a blog a few weeks ago about “social distancing encinitas” be sure to check that one out. I spoke with a few other businesses about what they are doing to adapt to current times. The underlying tone I get from everyone has been positive and resilient. Leave a comment tell me what you think! and if you have any photography needs contact me!