Retail outlets are buzzing with shoppers
Despite the chaos and risk of exposure to the virus, most cashiers are happy to be back at work.
Newcastle Mall is buzzing since the nationwide lockdown shifted from level five to level four on May 1, allowing many retail outlets to reopen their doors to shoppers.
A popular clothing retail store cashier, Mthokozisi Qwabe, is delighted to be able to return to work.
“For the past month I was unable to work and I faced great challenges,” he explained. “I had no income and I constantly worried how I was going to provide for my family.”
Qwabe says he had mixed feelings ranging from relief to paranoia when the announcement was made.
“I felt a wave of relief knowing I could go back to work and earn an income but the underlying fear of being exposed to the virus also still scared me. I have to put food on the table for my family but I know the risks. I have no other options,” he explained.
He is pleased however with the precautions taken by his employer, stating that staff had been armed with protective gear and hand sanitisers.
“The first few days we opened, it was chaos. The store experienced an influx of customers all searching for winter clothing and essential items,” he revealed.
Luckily, Qwabe is used to busy lines and a crowded store.
“We are always on the tip of our toes,” he smiled.
Qwabe loves his job especially because he gets to meet so many different types of people each day.
He is hoping the country will soon return to its former vibrant, lively self.
“It is a very sad thought to know how many businesses in our economy are suffering due to the COVID- 19 pandemic. I pray for better days for all retail workers and the frontline essential workers,” he added pensively.
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