NCA shares resources & highlights coffee companies that are “stepping up”
Along with keeping its members updated on how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting the coffee industry, the National Coffee Association (NCA) of the USA has been providing Covid-19 resources. Now, the NCA is offering these resources to non-members.
“We’ve reorganised and added important new materials to our NCA Covid-19 Resource Center,” said William “Bill” Murray, president and CEO of the New York-based association.
The NCA Covid-19 Resource Center is now organised by audience: for (a) consumers, and (b) coffee roasters/retailers/manufacturers.
New information has been added to the Covid-19 Resource Center regarding:
- Economic relief – new information from the Small Business Administration on how to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans, Express Bridge Loans, the new (up to) 100% forgivable Paycheck Protection Program, and other debt-relief measures.
- Clarified eligibility requirements for receiving assistance, including an important exemption for retail coffee shops with multiple locations.
- New regulations on paid leave policies for employers – including new mandatory paid sick leave requirements.
Amid these challenging times, coffee companies large and small are helping, each in their own way, many providing coffee to first responders. The NCA would like to honour coffee companies that are stepping up and helping others during the crisis. The NCA is asking people to do what they can and make sure to inspire others by tagging good work on social media using the hashtag #FuelTheHeroes. If you let the NCA know, they will help spread the word.
Furthermore, while the NCA cannot give specific advice relating to the unique circumstances of individual businesses and facilities, they have added a form to their Resource Center where members and non-members may submit questions to NCA regarding COVID-19, “which we will do our best to answer,” said Murray, adding, “we pass along these resources with thanks to NCA Members, who pay the dues that have made our work possible for over 100 years.”