Amherst's Best Businesses Of 2020: Readers Speak

AMHERST, NH — Last month, Patch in Amherst asked readers to offer some thoughts about local businesses who had gone above and beyond for customers in the community.

The year 2020 has been a difficult one for everyone but businesses are doing everything they can to help customers and stay afloat during the pandemic.

Dozens of readers said Amherst's Junction 71, a home decor, furniture, and gift shop on Route 101A, was a great place to do business, with all kinds of selections and helpful staffers — especially during the pandemic.

Kristi wrote, "Not only is the staff great, but the dealers within are amazing. They worked with the customers during Covid for online shopping and still cater to those who prefer to shop this way due to health issues."

Another reader, Rhonda, said, Junction 71 went above and beyond in regard to customer service during the COVID closure and even after reopening.

"The shop had only been open 9 months when the notice of COVID closures came," she wrote. "The team quickly came up with a plan to keep providing their customers with some form of happiness and normalcy with their ever-popular home decor, furniture and gifts. Photos would be posted daily on Facebook and the team took orders online, found a way to take online payments and set up contact-free curbside pickup. The team was there 7 days a week for 3.5 months, packing orders, to make sure that their small business survived. And it did, thanks to their amazing customer base. Even after reopening this summer, the team has continued those services. It is just a true testament to their dedication to their customers. Also, since reopening, they have had several supply drives for SHARE and the animal shelters to help out during the COVID crisis."

"Junction 71 went from a brick and mortar store to curb side pick-up," Katie, another reader, stated. "The transition looked seamless, although I know it wasn't. Published multiple pictures daily and was quick to answer all inquiries and to invoice and package purchases. They continue with curb side pick up and offer sanitizing stations and masks if need be for the in store purchases. Pam Robinson, the owner, works continuously to keep the customers and vendors safe."

One reader also praised the Smokehaus on Route 101 in town: "The food is absolutely delicious and the service is great," said Michelle.

If you have a local business are looking to get more customers, check out the free Patch Local Business Directory here, post classified ads here, and list events and happenings in your business here. To advertise, use this link.

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