Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the sector
Not a retailer was working, not even Paul Cheema
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
With Coca-Cola baubles and *shopt giveaways to spare.
The retailers were home, having a break from all the labour,
Not even a TikTok to be seen from Amit at GoLocal Sandiacre.
Though Jet Sunner was busy, working at the MLSS Feed,
Natalie Lightfoot closed her shutters, her evening finally freed.
Julie Kaur, always busy, with a million thoughts in her mind.
Doesn’t ever check her phone, so there were no messages to find.
Dee Sedani and his best friend Milo, a very loyal pair,
Roamed the snowy streets, spreading joy everywhere.
Everyone’s giddy for Christmas, everyone in town,
Served by Bobby Singh from BB Nevison, wearing his crown,
Avtar Sidhu from St John’s Budgens, worked all week with pride,
Placed presents under the tree, wondering why Atts still hadn’t replied.
In another house sits Atul Sodha, grinning with his drink,
Also not checking his phone, him and Julie are in sync.
One beer, two beers, maybe even a third,
It’s Christmas, after all; come on now, haven’t you heard?
For once, Cheema’s phone is on silent face down,
While Sophie Williams’ social videos are the talk of the town.
With a sprinkle of snow and the talk of Santa on his sleigh,
Bundles were being donated to foodbanks by the wonderful Serge Notay.
Trudy from Woosnam & Davies finally had time to recharge,
Already planning her 2024 charity work at large.
Aman Uppal’s Christmas Event, a sight to behold,
With kids waiting for Santa and stories being told.
At Jimmy’s Premier standing so tall and bright,
Shoppers found treasures that brought them delight.
With decorations aplenty, Dean Holborn’s store dazzled the eye,
A festive wonderland with garlands reaching the sky.
The week before Christmas held the busiest of days,
Where store-owners in our sector worked in a retail craze.
But then came a moment, a magical sight,
When all stores closed their doors, and turned off the light.
No more ringing cash registers, no more long queues,
The retailers were done, it was time for a snooze.
Their tired feet rested, their voices at rest,
As they dreamed of the holidays, feeling their best.
A C-Talk, we hope that everyone knows,
The joy of the season, that warm holiday glow.
Here’s to all the retailers, near and far away,
Happy Holidays to all of you, in every single way!
