How We Successfully Pivoted Our Business During Covid-19

In this clip of EYL, we sit down with renowned restaurant owner Mario Carbone to discuss one of the most challenging periods in recent history: the Covid-19 pandemic. With nearly 3,000 employees on the line and the business landscape decimated, Mario Carbone and his team had to act swiftly to adapt and survive.

When the pandemic hit, businesses across the globe ground to a halt almost overnight. Like many others, Mario Carbone’s restaurants faced the threat of closure with the sudden shutdown. However, what set Mario and his team apart was their quick decision-making and strategic pivot. “We had almost 3,000 employees, and this thing comes out of nowhere and decimates the business landscape… A week or so later we have 20 employees,” Mario reflects on the early days of the pandemic.

Despite the daunting challenge, Mario’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through. He credits their survival and eventual success to their ability to pivot hard and fast. Upon realizing the severity of the situation, he and his team convened and resolved not to accept the status quo of being unable to do business. Mario recalls, “We came together, we talked, we said we’re not going to accept not being able to do business. So where can we go do business?”

Different cities around the world were in various states of lockdown, but they quickly identified Miami, Florida, as a viable option. Unlike other cities, Miami was conducting business and life almost as usual. Mario and his team saw an opportunity. “Virtually the only city in the world that was up and running and conducting business and conducting life as was nothing was happening was Miami, Florida,” Mario explains.

The course of action was clear: take the business to Miami. They took bold steps and secured prime locations despite the uncertainty of how long the Covid crisis would last. According to Mario, “These restaurants are closing. We don’t know how long Covid’s gonna last but it’s not gonna last forever. So we see AAAA space. Grab it, we’ll figure it out later.”

This decision-making process showcases the importance of flexibility, quick thinking, and the willingness to take risks in the face of adversity. Mario Carbone’s story is a testament to the resilience and strategic planning required to navigate unprecedented challenges and emerge stronger.

Tune in to this inspiring episode of EYL to learn more about Mario Carbone’s remarkable journey, the decisions that led to his success, and how he and his team managed to turn a crisis into an opportunity.

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