The ‘COVID’ model is a simple casket made from an economic wood, without any detailed carvings, and glass viewing pains.
Chile, which is currently a hotspot for the coronavirus, has stepped up with aggressive government regulations to get control of the virus. However, last Friday the country had a count of 230,000 confirmed cases of COVID, making it the ninth most infected country in the world. On a daily basis about 5,000 new cases are added and expectations are that it will surpass the ranking of Italy.
Traditional coffin maker creates new model to meet demand
Nicolás Bergerie’s family has been producing coffins for four generations. The coffins in Chile are often built with detailed carvings, glass viewing pains and precious woods. However, to keep up with the increased demand due to corona Bergerie’s company decided to come with a ‘COVID’ model which is easier to produce and available at a lower cost.
The factory has ramped up it’s production 120%. Bergie’s told reporters that even though his production increased, the cheaper caskets resulted in an income drop of 50%.
On a daily basis Chile is carrying out over 20,000 virus tests with about 30% coming back positive and strong indications that many infections are still undetected. Intensive care units in the capital Santiago are at 96% of their capacity.
Making Bergerie´s new casket models while not his most financially rewarding endeavor a huge gift to the Chilean people. Who are financially strained and grieving.