How did you become aware of the pandemic?
Through the media and at University of Ulster Jordanstown, where I'm doing a master's in Global Business Management.
How has it affected you professionally?
Everything has changed. The store where I work is closed for an extra hour in the mornings to take in supplies when customers aren't about because of social distancing. We practise extra hygiene and are constantly washing our hands. Anything the customers touch, like the coffee machine has to be sanitized every 30 minutes. We're extra careful, but the mood in the shop has definitely changed; it's difficult to explain but we talk about (the situation) all the time. The worry is that people coming into the shop may be infecting us. And if you look at the feedback loop, you can infect so many people without realising it.
How has it affected you personally?
This virus has more or less changed everything. I live with my girlfriend and my mother. People joke about trying not to kill each other, and it is a strain, but we're OK. My mother works as a care assistant in Dundonald Hospital and is finding the whole situation quite stressful.
Are there any positives?
It's brought out the best and worst in people. Our shop began home delivery two weeks ago – it's growing every week. We take food partly to old people but also to young people with underlying health issues who are self-isolating. Customers say 'I'm really thankful you're offering this service'. When older people come into the shop, we let them know it's available. Of course, some of them like the social aspect and will come in anyway. At the start we were a bit overwhelmed by the demand. Now it's become a community effort, with the food bank, Rosario FC and other organisations helping. Staff recently got a pay rise for the work we've done on the front line, and we're very grateful.
How should the retail sector be responding?
We all need to work out safe interaction. I think personal hygiene will continue to be important, which is good, and I think we'll have a more virtual, online approach to meetings in the future.
What keeps you going?
Watching movies – I just saw Spenser Confidential. And my girlfriend Barbara and I enjoyed The Tiger King, about a fellow running a zoo in the States – pure craziness. I like cooking and do a lot of Italian dishes. Now and again we have a bottle of red. Social media is a good way of staying in touch with mates and last Friday we had a virtual pub quiz with about nine of us.
:: To order groceries from Mace, Ormeau Road, call 028 9069 3441 before 1pm. Payment is taken via debit card and the store offers same-day delivery.
