It’s been a while since i had thoughts or time to post here, but in this strange time of lockdown, i find i have a surplus of both.
Since the world has come to recognise the gravity of the coronavirus Pandemic – not just as a Chinese problem but a global one – it’s really brought to light the interconnectedness of our economy, our social media, everything. Not only that we are all touched by this virus in different ways, but that every action we take has far-reaching consequences for others around the world. An uncovered cough could spread the virus far and wide. A thoughtful purchase could support someone’s livelihood. As a consumer analyst (and experienced consumer myself), this element fascinates me.
Should we still be shopping at all? These recent think pieces from the New York Times and Man Repeller, both of which have gone semi-viral, explore the quandary at the heart of consumption right now. Is it a facile waste of money or a moral imperative to support independent businesses and offshore supply chains? So far, the prevailing mood on social media has been to encourage those who can afford it to support independent businesses – small fashion companies, local restaurants, social enterprises, your corner shop. In our house, we call it “tossing a coin to your Witcher” (if you haven’t watched The Witcher yet, try it, it’s fun and the Superman dude is impressively massive, and you probably have time on your hands).
But is it not also important to buy from those global retailers with their complex supply chains that support millions of low-paid workers? Especially when those mega-retailers are cancelling orders that would keep millions of people in work? This could have catastrophic effects for countries that rely on production contracts for global brands, like Bangladesh, Cambodia and Myanmar.
We just have to remember that our fates are interconnected with those running independent fashion brands as much as those people who weave, cut and sew mainstream clothing. We are all affected by this pandemic, and most of us have a lot less money to spend. So just think carefully about where you spend. If you can, help to keep this madly complex global economy ticking over. Support those companies you care about, but remember that there are people on the other side of the world working for massive brands who also need you to toss a coin.
Don’t get me wrong, i’m not saying anyone should be focusing on shopping right now. Especially as even online shopping can put people at risk, but for some of us, getting a little something new is a way to break the boredom or provide reassurance in a difficult time. As Harling Ross writes in Man Repeller, “it’s a tangible form of hope”.
How Things Are Done 