From time to time, we ask users of The New Shopping Bag about their life. The corona crisis makes for unprecedented times. Therefore we are asking some of our partners abroad to tell us how their lives look like now. This edition we are happy to take you to Taiwan to meet Janice and Mengko Hsieh. These 2 super fun women have recently started helping us build SUSAN BIJL in their country with their company exform. Thanks to their enthusiasm and dedication, you can now get our products in the awesome Tsutaya Bookstore Taiwan.
Describe yourself in three words.
Animal lover, Coffee Addict, Environmentalist.
Where are you now?
Taipei, Taiwan.
How has the COVID-19 crisis affected you?
In every way possible! It has taken all the fresh air because we have to wear masks. We are worried that there are not enough masks. And we’ve lost the freedom to go out in the weekends. Every day brings the fear that we might get infected. You can feel the tension everywhere and all the time.
Tell us something about you and The New Shopping Bag.
We came across The New Shopping Bag while we were browsing Instagram. We were amazed by the colour combinations at first, then the style and the capacity. There is no such bag in Taiwan, it gave us a whole different aspect. And yes, it was love at first sight.
Tell us something about Susan.
We haven’t had a chance to meet Susan, but we are pretty sure we will meet her and her lovely colleagues very soon. In our observation and understanding, Susan is full of colourful imagination and a very perseverant person who has stuck to the shopping bag design for 20 years! She must also be a planet lover who cares about air pollution and waste. You can say she is our role model.
What ecological measures would you take if you ruled the world?
Ban all the disposable items, such as plastic bags, wraps and tablewares. People are too used to this convenient way of living and have forgotten how it hurts the planet.
How do you brighten up your days in the current crisis?
Cleaning up the house, gardening, reading and making umeshu (plum wine)! Picking up the things which were left behind.
What part does colour play in that process?
We usually wear white, black or grey colours; however, we will choose some bright and different colour combination bags as a highlight!
Which music have you been listening to during the crisis?
Jazz! We love listening to classic Jazz, it is a perfect match for relaxing with a glass of wine in the house.
What is your biggest loss?
Losing our love ones. It is the hardest and most heartbreaking moment.
What is your ultimate destination?
Rotterdam! To meet Susan and everyone in the company. We’re looking forward to talking and seeing how all these amazing people work together to complete SUSAN BIJL!
Images by Janice and Mengko Hsieh