Dunelm launches virtual shopping service

Dunelm is testing out virtual shopping appointments during the coronavirus outbreak.

Powered by JRNI, formerly BookingBug, the new service is being offered via its Redditch and Erdington stores and is available to customers across the UK. The aim is to make it easy for customers to browse in-store from their homes via a video call with a staff member.

People can make an appointment and tell Dunelm about their style and items they’re interested in. Dunelm will then send them a video link and during the session will pick out options and discuss ideas. After the appointment, shoppers will receive a list of items and links. They can follow these links to order online from local stores with Click and Collect.

Dunelm says that it is looking to launch the service across the rest of its stores in the near future.

Back in action

Last month, Dunelm reopened 151 stores across England and Northern Ireland with new social distancing and safety measures in place.

Stores in Wales and Scotland will remain closed in line with guidance in those countries, although they are offering a Click and Collect service.

A statement on Dunelm’s website reads: "As with everything we've done so far we have approached this carefully.”

"We started by re-opening just a few stores in the Midlands first, then expanded to a group of 39 stores covering more of the UK. We are very happy to now be re-opening all stores in England and Northern Ireland."