How one dealer is working through the coronavirus

Russell

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to impact all avenues of life, both personally and professionally, P&Q caught up with Belt Tech‘s Jordan Russell to talk about the virus’ impact on his company and the industry as a whole. The Washington, Indiana-based equipment dealer expressed optimism in the face of uncertainty, and belief that the industry will pull through this unprecedented event together.

What is the current situation regarding the coronavirus pandemic in your region?

There are several thousand cases of COVID-19 currently in the states that we service. Currently, three of those states have issued shelter-in-place orders, and other states have issued direction on social distancing.

How has the coronavirus impacted the way Belt Tech can go about its business, both on a day-to-day basis and on a big-picture scale?

Belt Tech Industrial is considered an ‘essential business’ due to the customer base that we support and service. As such, we can continue to operate.

However, we have made arrangements for any employee whose job duties allow him or her to work from home. We are practicing social distancing in our office for employees who are still working from this setting. We have also limited access to our office and warehouse facilities to employees only.

What are you seeing with your customers and how are you adjusting?

Most, if not all, of our customers are still operating. However, most are only allowing employees on site if they have an immediate need. So our sales team is relying more on digital communication and phone calls to service customers.

Have you seen any moments of inspiration, of workers or customers offering compassion during these stressful times?

All of our employees have remained calm and positive for the most part. Daily, we can see examples of individuals checking on each others’ well-being and really making an effort to contribute to a positive vibe. It’s great to see so many people really living by our company’s core values.

Anything else to add related to the coronavirus pandemic as it pertains to your company or the industry as a whole?

The industry as a whole is very resilient, including the individuals who work in it. Although the current situation is unprecedented, there is no doubt we will all come through it together.