Great American Takeout Day gives restaurants a boost during coronavirus outbreak

It all began with a hashtag on social media.

"Most restaurants will use any, take any help they can get right now," said Chris Powers, co-owner of Trophy Brewing Company.

Powers said dining room sales made up a good portion of their profits.

"We've lost about 60 percent of our revenue as we made this pivot, which is a scary number to think about," Powers said.

"It's perfect that it's happening now," said Lee Robinson, owner of Irregardless Cafe.

Robinson said support of this campaign is critical for the entire industry.

"Takeout is the only way to keep local businesses open right now," Robinson said. "This is our lifeline."

Small business owners are using this as an opportunity to best serve customers in the future.

"I think it's going to change the entire industry, from the way that we serve our guests, from the way we take care of our employees and staff members," Powers said.

Owners we spoke with said it’s critical to place takeout orders. This is no longer about the future of individual restaurants but the future of the entire restaurant industry.