COVID-19 Update: SmartPak Remains Open to Serve Customers
SmartPak Equine to Remain Open and Operational; in Line with MA and Federal Guidance on COVID-19 Essential Services
With Massachusetts’ emergency order today to close non-essential workplaces for two weeks, I want to reassure our customers that SmartPak will remain open and operational – as long as permitted by law, regulation and for employee safety – to support your pet and animal needs.
In its emergency order, Massachusetts issued a list of designated businesses that provide essential services that are requested to continue operating their facilities. This list is based on federal guidance issued last week. SmartPak qualifies as an essential service of “animal agriculture workers to include those employed in veterinary health; manufacturing and the distribution of animal medical materials, animal vaccines, animal drugs, feed ingredients, feed and bedding…” and as such “….are urged to continue operations during this period of emergency…”
We will continue to follow national and local guidelines, in order to provide a safe and secure environment for our people and customers, alike. These include social distancing, increased cleaning and sanitization utilizing CDC guidelines, limiting travel, and utilizing web-based meetings with outside vendors. We have also made the decision to close our retail store at this time. However, as always, please visit SmartPak.com to place an order or contact our Horse Health Experts at 1-800-461-8898. To make these difficult times a little easier, and as part of our commitment to being here for you and your horse, we are now offering free shipping so that you can stock up on the items you need without worry.
Additionally, in recognition of the tremendous dedication of operations employees who are essential to ensuring our customers receive the products they need, we are announcing an hourly wage increase of $2.00 starting tomorrow, for hours that are worked onsite over the next 30 days. We thank our operations team, as we do all our employees, for their continued commitment and efforts.
We also thank our customers for their support as we strive to offer the best experience possible while responding swiftly to a changing situation. We encourage customers to visit our FAQ and resource center for the latest information about COVID-19, its impact on companion animals, and our up-to-date response.
As I have previously said, not only do we serve you in store and online, but we also board our horses, ride, and show with many of you; our customers. Our tight-knit equestrian community is strong and resilient, and we will get through this challenge together. Please be safe and stay healthy.
Fraser Cameron, CEO