Spotlight on The Beverly

Many small businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic, particularly minority-owned businesses. On Thursday, September 24, Back2Business cruised into the heart of Atlanta, Georgia providing financial assistance, leading technology solutions from Clover and community engagement. Fiserv President of Merchant Joint Ventures and Acquirer Processing, Kim Crawford Goodman presented a Back2Business grants to Mario Johnson, owner of the popular sports bar and restaurant The Beverly.

Kim was joined by SVP of SMB Inside Sales Leslie Pearce, who served as Master of Ceremonies at the event, and Vivian Greentree, SVP of Global Corporate Citizenship, who shared more on how our Back2Business program creates opportunity for deeper Fiserv engagement in the Atlanta community.

The Beverly Serves Up Good Vibes and Great Food in Atlanta
When restaurateur Mario Johnson developed the concept for The Beverly, he wanted to create a food-focused sports bar in his home neighborhood of Grant Park. With its eclectic American-Caribbean cuisine, specially curated local brews and live entertainment, the Beverly is a self-proclaimed ‘purveyor of good vibes’ – something everyone can use more of these days!

Not only does the restaurant serve delicious food, but they prioritize supporting the local community. “Small businesses are important to the economy as a whole because they provide opportunities and employment for a lot of people, and especially people located in a close proximity to these businesses.”

In addition to employing residents, The Beverly is active in the community and sponsors local sports programs.

Connecting with customers

In early 2020, The Beverly was achieving a level of success many restaurant owners only dream of, with reservations completely booked through mid-April and several events on the calendar. When COVID-19 hit, that early momentum came to an abrupt halt and the restaurant closed its doors through the end of May.

Mario found new ways to stay in touch with his customers by sending emails on special menu promotions and takeout/delivery options. Since reopening, The Beverly is working back up to their operating numbers pre-pandemic.

The Back2Business recovery grant will be a vital lifeline for The Beverly. As Mario looks ahead, he is optimistic. “With the Back2Business grant and resources from Fiserv, we will be able to pay down past due bills. By reducing some of the financial stress, The Beverly will be able to remain a proud partner to the Grant Park community.”

Learn more about Back2Business

Read our introductory post Getting Back2Business for a broader look at the initiative, why we’re doing it, and how to get involved.

Editorial Team

Back2Business

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