Even as many stay open, small businesses are feeling omicron's impact
ABC News
Businesses are coming across staffing issues, higher costs and smaller numbers of customers.
Small businesses around the country are feeling the impact of the surge in new COVID-19 cases, primarily driven by the omicron variant. The spread of the virus is causing staffing issues, higher costs and fewer customers, they say.
Some businesses said they have been forced to temporarily shut down because they do not have enough staff to stay open, while others are over-scheduling staff for shifts, just in case anyone gets sick and can't come in.
The Roguelike Tavern, a bar in Burbank, California, announced it will remain closed after its Christmas break, at least until next Monday, but will only be offering takeout and delivery.
The risk of exposure for the bar's staff became apparent when they kept hearing people they were in contact with test positive for COVID, according to John McCormick, the owner of The Roguelike Tavern.