Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1257023
N ot surprisingly, the vast majority of members reported negative impacts on business, with 62% experiencing or anticipating cash flow challenges. A follow-up survey on COVID-19 relief loans found wildly divergent experiences with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans (SBA EIDL). More than 40% of companies also shared concerns over labor shortages, the inability to operate, lack of work for staff, demand disruptions, and supply chain disruptions. Fears over inability to sell inventory were widespread, with builders concerned about selling homes currently under construction. Associates likewise reported decreases in home showings. We asked members what sort of resources would be most useful. Respondents overwhelmingly preferred written materials like emails, as well as webinars, on topics such as emergency funds, unemployment benefits, and human resource matters. Finally, we asked if there was anything else we should know. Responses lifted us up during this difficult time: Have more feedback or resources to share? Email covid19@mbaks.com Helping Us Help You "We will get through this." "It's heartening to learn that our association is reaching out to its members early during these incredibly unique and challenging times." "Please keep fighting for us. Housing is essential." Shortly before the Governor's March 23 "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order, we surveyed members to hear how COVID-19 was impacting business. Of the 2,500 member companies reached, more than 450 responded. Here's what they had to say. BY LIZ HUMPHREY MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER MBAKS In response to these surveys, team MBAKS created a central repository for information about this pandemic and its impact on our industry. Executive Director Kat Sims provided frequent updates and helpful resources, including two comprehensive toolkits to help members get back to work, once Governor Inslee announced Construction Restart Phases 1 and 2. We also reached out to public officials and the press to address members' most pressing issues, such as worksite vandalism. RESPONDENTS BY MEMBER T YPE Builder Members 38% 15% Remodeler Members 46% Associate Members IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON MEMBERS 83% Members reported being negatively impacted by COVID-19 in March 97% Members predicted being negatively impacted by the end of June MEMBER EXPERIENCE WITH COVID-19 RELIEF LOANS—SBA EIDL 47% Applied 22% Approved 24% Received Funding MBAKS Member COVID-19 Survey Results 93% Applied 96% Approved MEMBER EXPERIENCE WITH COVID-19 RELIEF LOANS—PPP 83% Received Funding 43 SUMMER 2020 | master BUILDER MEMBERSHIP VALUE