Harrisburg, PA – Today, Department of Community of Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Dennis Davin encouraged Pennsylvanians to support local businesses safely this year by only shopping virtually and utilizing curbside pickup options.

“Black Friday is enjoyed by both consumers and retailers alike and is a tradition that we encourage people to celebrate in the safest way this year,” said Sec. Davin. “With the recent additions of Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, shoppers now have a vast array of options this holiday season to safely support their favorite retailers—including e-commerce platforms, ordering by phone, purchasing downloadable gift certificates, and picking up products curbside. This year, to keep Pennsylvanians safe and healthy, those options are more important than ever.”

COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air by coughing or sneezing; through close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; and by touching an object or surface with the virus on it—all vehicles for transmission when individuals are gathered in groups, crowds, or public settings. While masks are required at all times in all retail establishments in the commonwealth, by shopping virtually and using curbside pickup, Pennsylvanians can limit their risk of contracting and spreading the virus.