The phrase "business as usual" dates back to the late 19th century, when it was commonly used by businesses to indicate that they remained open despite external disruptions such as weather conditions or construction. This usage reassured customers that operations would continue unaffected. >[!quote] > ”We are open for business, as usual" The expression gained significant prominence during World War I. Initially, British politicians believed the war would not disrupt trade and commerce, using "business as usual" to maintain public confidence. As the war progressed and disruptions became inevitable, the phrase evolved into a rallying cry, symbolizing resilience and determination. Winston Churchill was among the key figures who helped popularize the term in this context.  >Ludovic-Rodolphe Pissarro; Business as usual during the alterations of the Map of Europe, circa 1915 Today, the term has been adopted in corporate and operational settings ([[Business as Usual (BAU) in Business Operations]]) to distinguish routine tasks from strategic initiatives, emphasizing continuity and stability in business operations. --- ## References >As early as the late-1800s, this expression referred to store hours. For example, a store might say that they were open for business, as usual. > >The term originated as an announcement businesses would use to say there were still open despite the weather, construction, or other kinds of interruptions. - [What Does Business As Usual Mean? - Writing Explained](https://writingexplained.org/idiom-dictionary/business-as-usual) >Britain in World War I. When war was declared in late July 1914 it was assumed that the conflict would be over shortly and the British government took a stance of non-interference. [...] the government's policy was "to enable the traders of this country to carry on business as usual." >Soon after, in August 1914, Winston Churchill stated that "the maxim of the British people is 'business as usual'". Stores [...] picked up on the phrase and posted signs displaying "Business as Usual." - [Why do we say Business As Usual?](https://www.bookbrowse.com/expressions/detail/index.cfm/expression_number/89/business-as-usual)