The importance of frontline medical workers came to the fore during the pandemic. The crushing pressure on nurses, doctors and all types of medical staff was truly appreciated and celebrated.
However, there were a range of other workers that were also appreciated, including those who formed part of the supply chain and ensured our groceries were delivered and stacked on the shelves. Food outlets, grocery stores and corner shops were vital to ensure the nation could access food during the lockdown.
Many non-essential retail outlets had to reinvent using online marketing, click and collect and TikTok as a means of creating sales. Clothing and non-essential outlets found themselves on the pointy end of things. Becci Harrison, chief executive and owner at Fishers of NewtownMountKennedy, had to pivot quickly when her boutique department store was closed. Going online and using her extensive Network Ireland business contacts helped but it was tough. Even when lockdowns eased, issues such as a changing rooms had to be addressed with steam cleaning used on all items brought in to be tried on.
While food outlets remained open, the numbers shopping in store reduced and there was an increase in online shopping, using either click and collect or home delivery services. Overall, grocery incomes remained stable and, in some cases, increased, whereas many non-essential outlets took a hit despite innovation.
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As we look to 2023, the opening of society and engagement – this may be the first proper Christmas since lockdown – has resulted in huge footfall in urban areas where people are keen to reclaim their shopping and dining rights.
In the UK last month Primark unveiled expansion plans with at least four more UK stores set to open, which will create about 850 jobs. The company pledged to invest £140 million in its UK stores over the next two years. Local Irish multiples are also hiring, from till level to trainee managers and graduate recruitment. Retail careers are back to boom times, it seems.