No panic and not many customers as shops emerge from lockdown
IT has been a long wait and one that shop owners were relieved to see as many retail outlets opened their doors in Dingle on Monday under phase two of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, welcoming customers for the first time since the government enforced closure in Mid March.
West Kerry has emerged relatively unscathed from the coronvirus pandemic, however the opening of non-essential retail businesses, the majority of which rely on tourism for their income, may yet reveal some of the more long term effects of the pandemic.
Businesses have had to adapt to rescue what business they can, with visitors expected to be limited to mostly Irish holidaymakers at least until the end of the summer. Added to this, shops are are required to invest in protection measures to protect staff and customers from the virus.
However, retail businesses are taking hope from the level of bookings reported in accommodation around West Kerry and are ensuring that they are well placed to cater for the recovering market.
In Strand House, Chris Quill has overhauled the layout of the shop, moving items that would be of most interest to Irish people – such as clothing and footwear – to prominent positions on the ground floor while ‘ tourist goods’ have been moved upstairs.
Just up the street, Garvey’s Sportswear was busy and Assistant Manager Morgan Brophy reported lots of interest in summer clothes and shoes, which she attributed to the increase in interest in outdoor activities during the lockdown.
Meanwhile many businesses in Green Street have opened and Linda Allen of Lisbeth Mulcahy’s Siopa na bhFiodóirí felt that the “timing of the opening is just right for Ireland, even though business is quieter than is to be expected”.
Jeweller John Weldon said he was pleased with the way the government has speeded up elements of the re-opening and while business was slow on Monday he was looking forward to welcoming more customers when travel restrictions are eased.
Artist Louise MacIntyre in the Dingle Artworks shop doesn’t expect many foreign visitors this year but she is looking forward to lots of Irish customers and their friendly banter as the summer progresses.