The coronavirus pandemic has affected everyone’s lives in different ways. Businesses are no exception, as they have been forced to adjust to COVID-19. Some businesses can afford temporary shutdowns, while others have been forced to close their doors forever. Whether it is totally closing or shifting to online orders, St. Louis businesses are constantly working to navigate through this historic period, and this Photo Gallery spotlights this struggle in the STL business community.
The Apple Store in West County Mall, usually bustling with customers during normal times, recently had this sign posted in its window, stating simply, “Closed until further notice.” While Apple, one of the largest companies on Earth, can sustain the pandemic and has returned to at least allowing customers to pick up items they have ordered online, other businesses find themselves not nearly as fortunate. Photos by Carter Mize
A sign at the entrance of a St. Charles County Quiktrip suggests their customers wear masks before entering.
A nearly empty church parking lot on a Sunday morning when worship services are normally held.
Tables in the food court at West County Mall are spaced out to encourage social distancing.
Ballwin Athletic Association ballfields remained empty all summer as teams were unable to play. The hope is they will begin reopening this spring.
The Walmart in Manchester, Missouri, requires masks for shoppers who enter the store.
The O’Fallon, Missouri, Texas Roadhouse restaurant advertising it is open for business as usual.
The Ballwin, Missouri, Texas Roadhouse is utilizing to-go services due to closing its dining area.
The Lululemon store in West County Mall with a sign informing customers it is open for modified business.
Normally full of young children, the children’s play area in West County Mall is closed.
The Sugarfire Smokehouse restaurant in O’Fallon, Missouri, displays a sign encouraging customers to call ahead with their orders and offering free delivery.
Carter Mize is a staff journalist for MBU Timeline. Born and raised in O’Fallon, Missouri, Mize is a communications studies major at Missouri Baptist University, as well as a first baseman for the MBU Spartan baseball team.