It’s no secret that businesses exist to serve their customers, clients, or stakeholders in some way. But many businesses don’t realize the full extent of their impact on the communities they operate in and how they can contribute to the public’s well-being. Edgard Corona, the CEO of SmartFit, a popular gym chain in Latin America, is one example of a business leader who understands the importance of serving the public. In this blog post, we’ll explore how businesses can positively impact society, using examples and lessons from Edgard Corona’s experience.
1. Making Products and Services Accessible
Businesses can serve the public by making their products or services accessible to a wider range of people. This can include pricing strategies that cater to lower-income customers or offering flexible payment plans, like the ones Smart Fit has implemented in Brazil. In an interview with Forbes, Corona explained how Smart Fit’s payment plans have made gym membership more attainable for people who may not have been able to afford it otherwise. By taking these steps, businesses can help promote greater social inclusion and improve public health outcomes.
2. Creating Job Opportunities
Another way that businesses can serve the public is by creating job opportunities, especially in areas with high unemployment rates. This not only helps individuals and families who may have been struggling to make ends meet but also contributes to the overall economic growth of a region. Smart Fit, for example, has created thousands of jobs across Latin America, including in countries with high poverty and unemployment rates, such as Mexico and Colombia. By employing local people and supporting the development of their skills, businesses can contribute to communities’ social and economic well-being.
Businesses have a tremendous opportunity to serve the public and positively impact society. From promoting social inclusion and creating job opportunities to giving back to the community and prioritizing sustainability, there are many ways businesses can contribute to the well-being of the public. Edgard Corona and SmartFit are examples of how businesses can put these principles into practice and make a lasting positive impact.
