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COVID-19 Experiences and Coping Strategies: The Case of Differently Sized Businesses in South Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Syden Mishi

    (Department of Economics, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa)

  • Nomonde Tshabalala

    (Department of Economics, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa)

  • Godfred Anakpo

    (Department of Economics, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa)

  • Weliswa Matekenya

    (Department of Economics, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa)

Abstract

Businesses have experienced the impacts of COVID-19 differently due to their inherent characteristics and resilience capabilities. Understanding the varied experiences of businesses is an important ingredient for a well-informed policy and for future preparedness. The purpose of this study is to conduct a qualitative analysis of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on different businesses (small, medium, and large) and their coping strategies. The findings reveal different experiences among the businesses; the majority of small businesses were unable to change their business operation model due to logistics and infrastructure constraints, forcing most to temporarily close or pause operations, unlike the larger businesses that had a relatively inbuilt resilience structure. It is also interesting to report that government relief schemes were mainly utilized by larger businesses, arguably due to their formal nature and organized labour, whereas most smaller businesses were out of operation or relying on family support networks for survival. This study further identifies different approaches such as adjusting cost structures, temporary closures, transitioning to an online business (ICT) model, reskilling staff, and retrenchment as some coping strategies. Lessons learned and recommendations are provided at the end of this study.

Suggested Citation

  • Syden Mishi & Nomonde Tshabalala & Godfred Anakpo & Weliswa Matekenya, 2023. "COVID-19 Experiences and Coping Strategies: The Case of Differently Sized Businesses in South Africa," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-19, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:10:p:8016-:d:1147104
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Robert W. Fairlie, 2020. "The Impact of Covid-19 on Small Business Owners: The First Three Months after Social-Distancing Restrictions," CESifo Working Paper Series 8581, CESifo.
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