AHH, CHRISTMAS. THE time of year when we’re all meant to be kind to each other, spend time with our families and help the less fortunate.

If you work in retail at this time of year, you’ll know that very few people are kind to you (never mind each other), you barely get to spend any time with your family because you’re dragged back into work for Christmas sales, and you might just be the less fortunate, on a wage of €9.55 per hour. 

Niall Carson Niall Carson

Of course, there are a few customers who understand the struggle and go out of their way to be a little bit kinder to employees at this time of year. As hard as they try, these people unfortunately won’t always make up for all of the other arrogant, inconsiderate and angry shoppers who are taking out their frustrations on innocent staff members.

Retail and hospitality workers have got it pretty tough at Christmas. The debate rages on and on about whether the shops and restaurants should open on Stephen’s Day. There are those who insist that workers need to shut up and get over it, because we don’t hear the likes of ambulance and hospital staff complaining about working on Stephen’s Day or Christmas.

The difference is, nobody’s gonna die if the staff from Arnotts or Brown Thomas don’t show up on the 26th of December.

Others will say, “I’ve saved up all year for the Christmas sales! Let me spend my money how I like!” Good for you, enjoy that cardigan you’re going to get about 5% off, but what difference does it make if the sales are pushed back a day or two to let staff spend some time at home. 

We’ve all heard someone say, “Everyone should have to work in retail at some stage so they learn how to treat workers.” So, we’re curious about how many people actually haven’t worked in retail. 

Have you ever worked in retail at Christmas?

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