How Winter Weather and Snow Affects Grand Rapids and Lansing Michigan Businesses
All Michigan business will be affected by intense Michigan winters in various ways depending on your type of business and how prepared you are for the snow and ice. If you live in Grand Rapids or Lansing, you don’t need us to tell you winters are as unpredictable as they are cold, but let’s look at some of the details so you can be better prepared.
According to The National Weather Service, Grand Rapids had the coldest February ever recorded in 2015, which resulted in loads of school and business closings. And the Grand Rapids snowfall total for November 2014 broke historic records.
How Does Winter Weather Affect Businesses in Michigan?
The answer to this question depends upon the type of business, as well as the area of Michigan in which it is situated. The largest determinant of winter impact on Michigan business is typically the amount of snow that falls (or, in some cases, fails to fall) in particular areas. Typically Western Michigan is hit with significantly more snow than Eastern Michigan.
Of course, some businesses thrive when Old Man Winter reaches out his frosty fingers. Notably, ski resorts, Bed and Breakfast establishments and local restaurants often increase sales during intense or snowy winters. However, the effects of inclement weather on most businesses is not favorable. These detrimental effects are likely to include:
- Property damage
- Flooding
- Employee absence, illness or injury
- Lack of resource availability
- Price fluctuations for resources needed in business operations
- Increased costs of goods and services
- Transportation and project delays
- Need to increase prices to business patrons
- Higher risk for potentially dangerous walkways and parking lots
Even businesses, reliant on snowfall for profitability, need professional and reliable snow removal services in order for customers to access their locations. This is particularly true in areas like Grand Rapids and Lansing, where Lake-effect Snow is a probability.
Contact our highly experienced team of snow removal experts to keep your business on track during long and bitter Michigan winters!