Risk & Business Magazine JGS Insurance - Fall 2020 | Page 3

Welcome! LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT S ix months ago, our world came to a screeching halt. Here in New Jersey we have been slower to reopen than other states, yet our rate of transmission is one of the lowest in the United States. As of this writing, Governor Murphy has just announced the reopening of indoor dining (25 percent capacity), gyms, and movie theaters. Schools are back in session with varying forms of in-person learning and virtual online learning. After a summer of outdoor activities, outdoor dining, and small gatherings, it now seems like we are moving closer to a reopening of the state. Hopefully, we can continue to be diligent in social distancing and wearing masks and keep moving forward. As you can see from the cover, with this issue we have decided to do some things different. We wanted to share with you some of the personal success stories of some of our clients during the pandemic. When the state shut down in March, most businesses closed and/or shifted to work from home (WFH) where they could. Not all businesses can function in a WFH environment, and some businesses could not open due to the restrictions. In this issue, we focus on some of those business that were able to pivot and find success in these uncertain times. Our cover story focuses on Sea Breeze Syrups (page 6), a supplier of beverages to restaurants, bars, health care centers, and more. Many of their customers had to shut down and were unable to open for many months. Sea Breeze pivoted to create Bioneat, a waterless hand wash with an eye toward outdoor dining. ClorDiSys (page 4) is a manufacturer of chlorine dioxide gas used originally to sterilize medical devices who expanded to serve several industries including food safety, education, healthcare, and transportation. As you can imagine, their products came into heavy demand during the pandemic, and as a result, their workforce has grown by 50 percent. They have also succeeded in reaching out to local communities to help with reopenings. Continental Auto Parts (page 5) is a David vs. Goliath success story in the aftermarket auto parts industry. By staying open throughout this time period, they were able to keep their staff employed and pick up business in areas where their large competitor was unable to deliver. Imagine opening your new company in late February 2020. Auto Sunroof and Leather (page 27) customizes cars for dealerships and private businesses. By staying open during the pandemic, they were able to pick up new relationships with various dealers and businesses through their reliability and by delivering a superior product. In addition, they have decided to donate $50 from every sale to local food banks and charities to give back to their community. Tempco Glass and GAMCO Corporation (page 25) serves the glass fabrication needs of local glaziers, glass shops, and manufacturers. Their products can be found predominantly in highrise buildings. Looking at the needs of various companies who wanted to reopen their businesses, they designed and started installing antimicrobial Plexiglass partitions for sanitary barriers in commercial buildings, in addition to high-end Invisiguard Glass partitions for various businesses looking for a more permanent product. Eden Autism (page 29) is a nonprofit organization serving the needs of those with autism, from toddlers to seniors. After COVID-19 forced the closure of day centers, Eden pivoted to offer its day services at Eden-staffed residences. Activities such as painting and calls with family members are also arranged at residences where care is provided around the clock by dedicated staff members, including the support of Eden’s clinicians who partner with program staff. We are thrilled to be able to feature these great partners of JGS Insurance and bring to you some success stories of how various businesses were able to pivot and find success in these difficult times. In addition to these local success stories, we also have our usual assortment of feature articles to help you continue to find success in your own businesses. Wishing you and your families good health! Vinnie Hager, President JGS Insurance est. 1919 JGSINSURANCE.COM 3