Pandoughra's Box, a dessert shop serving cookies, ready-to-eat cookie dough and ice creams, recently received negative feedback from their followers after sharing a story on Instagram.
The small business run by two sisters began a year and a half ago and has built a strong community since. Many of the business' followers and customers have now turned into friends. In the event that the dessert shop closes early, it is commonplace that an explanation is offered to Pandoughra's followers as to why. In a recent post, the company shared that they would be closing early due to their short staffing and upcoming booster shot appointments. Unexpectedly, the business became the centre for backlash and criticism regarding the current Covid-19 pandemic and their choices.
Responses to the story were negative, dissenting and surprising.
"Some people said who are we to tell people to get vaccinated. I agree we are not medical professionals and when we said this, it was in no way a compulsion or a dig at anyone," says Rujuta Agate, one of the owners of the shop.
In a similar manner, Chef Nick Liu of DaiLo received replies of judgment and ridicule after sharing a story of a photo of himself getting vaccinated on Instagram. With reference to this, Chef Liu made a post speaking out about people not respecting his choices.
"I find it strange that some people feel they know what’s best for myself and my business to give me their advice on how to manoeuvre through this pandemic," says Liu. He recognizes that he is not a medical professional which is why he is doing what he feels is right for himself and his business, irrespective of negative opinions.
Since Pandoughra's posting, many regulars of the shop have stopped in to offer support and words of encouragement. Rujuta is touched by her community and the backing Pandoughra's has received.
"This is what we are proud of and this is what we have built in the last one to one and a half years of being in the business. That’s right. We are pandemic babies," she said.
Located in Stackt Market at 28 Bathurst Street, Pandoughra's Box is open Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
