The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is optimistic for the future of businesses in the province as they continue to deal with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Wednesday, Nova Scotia lifted some restrictions by allowing malls, retail establishments and fitness facilities to return to 100 per cent capacity, with physical distancing.
Patrick Sullivan, CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, believes that's a good change but is unsure of the impact it could have.
"I don't know if it will have a real impact, and in fact, I haven't seen a lot of lineups outside retail establishments other than Costco and grocery stores on Easter weekend," said Sullivan.
But he says the move does inspire confidence in the community as the province keeps its COVID numbers low.
"It does show that Halifax and all of Nova Scotia are a safe community and we have no community spread and you can go out safely," he said.
Sullivan would like to eventually see gathering limits increased at restaurants, but adds even with physical distancing, it would be unlikely that they could have as many customers as they used to have.
But he says the outlook is positive for businesses in the province, adding it's important for residents to support local businesses.
"There's still hope and we know that the time will come, as vaccinations continue, that we will be able to have more people together," he said.
