I have absolutely nothing personal against any one business or company or conglomerate or whatever, but there’s this worrying trend that is driving me bat-shit insane.
It’s been simmering under the surface for a little while, but I feel like I just have to let some of that steam out.
DO we need more Starbucks?!?
For a good four years, I worked in, for and with the most amazing group of people who had the courage to break the system, to create their own version of success and something tangible and beautiful.
For the most part, we succeeded; we started a movement and we had people talking. Everyone who worked for the company was creative in their own right. Every single person.
The store designed and manufactured their own clothes while working with local musicians, artists and collaborated with other designers.
It was never easy but it was fun. We worked with smiles on our faces, sold our hearts out and got up and did it all over again. We hosted exhibitions, album launches, had DJs play in store and fostered a culture that I’ve embraced.
Unfortunately, building a business in a recession takes its toll and we shut down. The Liffey Street branch store is now a Starbucks. Another Starbucks. 5 minutes away from another Starbucks
.I know people will say it is creating jobs and they’re right. I know people will say that I am living in the past and maybe they’re right but EVERY SINGLE person who left the old store is doing better in their lives in a creative sense and personally I wouldn’t be if it wasn’t for Counter Propaganda.
We need more creative space in Dublin. Not less.
We need to create a culture of can do. Not can settle.
In the immortal words of every Facebook post you hate… ‘rant over’.
Nozzle & Spray