A lot of people have been talking about 'a new normal', as we come out of lockdown. After a time of stress, sadness and loss for many, we all hope for something better coming out of it.

But what does 'better' look like?

Gwyrddio Penarth Greening has paired up with Nub News to share stories and ideas about how things may look, from the point of view of local people: individuals and organisations, businesses and schools.

Sian Fox, the owner of Foxy's Deli on Station Approach, is the first business we have spoken to about their experience during the coronavirus lockdown and how they are planning for the future as we adjust to a new normal.

How has the coronavirus pandemic affected your business?

The virus has affected our business in far better ways than bad ways. We knew as soon as we heard the news and how the virus was progressing that we could not close – for financial reasons and also for providing Foxy food to locals that would be in lockdown. We immediately set up a delivery service which we have provided online, text, phone etc). So, we have been very busy adjusting to this way of working.

What positive things have come out of this unprecedented time? Is there anything you will continue to do post coronavirus?

As a business, our experience has been predominately positive. Our delivery service has been very successful, and we will definitely be continuing with this – as we have bought a TUK TUK to deliver and to advertise this.

What do you have on offer as a business at this moment in time?

At the moment we are open for shoppers, we are offering to do take away coffees, breakfasts, lunches and a full delivery service.

We have also launched a scheme called Businesses working together, where Foxy's have started selling goods from local non-essential shops that have been unable to open (so far Rowley's, Not Socks Again, Penarth Music centre, Gifts at No 9 and Tropic by Rosie) have got involved.

How has the community of Penarth supported you through these difficult times?

The community in Penarth have been quite supportive. Customers have been extremely grateful for our services and are continuing to support us during these difficult times. We have a window of heroes on Foxy's window with all the names of people who have supported us (this currently stands at 250 names).

What are your hopes and plans as we move forward and out of these tight restrictions?

Our plan is to continue with deliveries and take away service and hope we can welcome old regulars back to sit in soon.

Environmental awareness and progress have been an integral part of discussion revolving around the 'new normal'. What steps will you be taking with your business regarding the environment?

As you know we are keen champions of the environment and reducing waste. We have noticed that our zero waste/refill section has been more popular during the virus. I think people have more time to think about it and time to organise their jars to fill up etc.

We will be continuing this service and we are hopefully going to increase the produce we have on offer when people have seen that it does make a difference.

'Shopping Local' is an integral part of the Penarth High Street scene. What are you hopes coming out of the pandemic regarding Penarth's shopping habits?

We really hope, but are not convinced, that local Penarth people will try and shop locally more frequently. On our only, and very slightly, negative note, we noticed that as soon as the Tesco slots opened, our deliveries dropped. Everyone is telling me that their shopping habits will change – so we shall see!

Name something from the lockdown experience that you think we should all keep hold of, as we move on to the next stage?

Being respectful to people, having patience with others and trying to work together as a community.

Read our original piece on Learning from Lockdown here.

If you are a local Penarth business and would like to get involved in our new series please contact me at [email protected].

We are also interested in hearing stories from individuals and families across the community about how they have handled lockdown and their thoughts on the future.