by Josh Long
The devastating disruptions to American lives caused by the Covid-19 pandemic may seem like a very distant memory. At the time, as around-the-clock news coverage focused on the rapid spread of the disease and associated illnesses, many American businesses paused customer-facing operations because of government policies aimed at containing the disease’s transmission.
Recognizing the immense hardship that its members would face in the event they had to close their doors, the Natural Products Association secured federal designation of the dietary supplement supply chain as essential.
While others closed, NPA members stayed open.
“Local businesses are an essential resource for Americans in times like these, especially people at risk, who need access to neighborhood stores,” NPA President and CEO Daniel Fabricant, Ph.D., said during the pandemic, after the association launched a grassroots campaign to support health food stores. “Communities need these stores open and we are asking lawmakers to lift any order as it relates to health food stores.”
NPA mobilized a grassroots network over a period of days, sending thousands of letters to elected officials across the country, requesting that health food stores remain open as essential businesses. Health food stores provide a wide range of essential products, including water, electrolytes, nutritional supplements, healthy food options, and other health-related products such as hand sanitizer.
Thousands of health food stores remained open based on guidance from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the President’s declaration that workers in critical infrastructure have a “special responsibility” to continue working.
NPA has a “special responsibility” to its members that it takes seriously: relentless advocacy.
Your business needs and deserves a strong advocate. NPA’s critical work during the pandemic is a reminder that our association founded in 1936 has a history of supporting its members in good times and in bad times.
Don’t wait for the next crisis to join NPA. We’re here to support you today. Contact Evelyn Reinson (ereinson@npanational.org) to learn more about NPA’s member benefits and become part of the 90-year movement.
