BEYOND COVID-19 ‘We’re looking forward to seeing our customers and we’ll welcome them back with opens arms’

SMALL BUSINESSES - THE PUBLICAN

THE Irish pub business has suffered major setbacks in recent times, but this is struggle is like no other, according to Johnny Keogan, Nobber publican.

“From closing for one day a year, to now closing for an indefinite number of days is unsettling and alarming. All publicans can relate to that.

“However, we look forward to returning to business as usual, sooner rather than later thanks to the co-operation of our strong and tight communities who are now noticing the absence of their local businesses and amenities more than ever,” he said.

Mr Keogan pointed out that there is great spirit in Nobber and the past year has seen the development of a fabulous new GAA clubhouse, amenity park, and the start of the new greenway.

“We will have to enjoy all of these a little later than we would like.

“When society does return to normal, we look forward to hosting all the meetings and catch-ups between our loyal customers who we will welcome with open arms,” he said.

Many smaller businesses will get it hard to get back on their feet when the lockdown ends, according to Jess Olohan, one of the proprietors of the Book Market cafe in Kells.

“I hope that the local community will continue to support local business when all this is over.

“It is important to remember that small local outlets were there for the community when we all had to stay at home and they need our support.

She also hoped that people, especially parents with young children would not be quite as driven as they were before the pandemic.

“They don't need to be doing five different extras curricular activities. They have been doing all sorts of different things at home. I'm hoping that the pace of life remains a little bit slower.

“While we want business back up and running, we have to consider the level of business we want.

“Do we really need to be making so much money to buy big cars and do so many things.”