MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Stores are opening back up in almost all of Tennessee. Urban areas like Memphis and Nashville are still closed, but as of Wednesday, retail in most of the state is back in business.
In Fayette County, business owners say they are glad they can open back up.
On the Somerville town square, Farmer's Hardware has remained open because it’s considered an essential business. But next door, Farmer's Home Furnishing and the boutique reopened for business Wednesday morning after being shut down during the COVID-19 crisis.
We talked to one employee on the phone who said some things are different.
"We have one door that everyone can come through, so we can control the number of people who come in and out," said Dana Hanson.
Around the corner at David Kelly Jewelers, the owner is excited to open his showroom back up.
"We're still going to offer curbside service if someone isn't comfortable to do that, but I'm excited about trying to get opened again," said owner David Kelly.
In Oakland, Fayette Pool Supplies has been open because it’s an essential business, but the manager says it’s been slow. Now that the rest of retail is opening up, folks here hope business will pick up.
"I'm hoping within a month, within the next month it will be back to normal," said manager Chanel Ward.
"A lot of people are just excited to get out of their homes and come to some place other than a Kroger, Walmart, or Dollar Tree," said Hanson.
People tell Local 24 News they are glad stores are open. Now they are waiting for gyms, and nail and hair salons to open back up.
