British Retail Consortium urges shoppers to do their bit as stores reopen

As non-essential retailers begin to reopen this week, the British Retail Consortium and its members have called on the public to help create a safe and enjoyable environment for shoppers and shopworkers.

Non-essential retail businesses in England can return to action from Monday, along with outdoor attractions and some indoor facilities, having spent much of the past 12 months closed due to three coronavirus lockdowns.

The BRC stresses that retailers have spent hundreds of millions of pounds on measures designed to prevent the transmission of Covid, including safety glass, queue management systems, social distancing signage, better ventilation, and more frequent cleaning.

Customers, it adds, should follow these seven steps to make retail reopening as enjoyable and safe as possible for everyone.

Be respectful to shop staff and fellow customers; Wear a face covering in store unless medically exempt; Maintain social distancing; Queue considerately; Follow instructions inside and outside shops; Follow all hygiene measures including regular hand cleaning; Shop alone where possible.

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive at the British Retail Consortium, says: “Retailers have spent hundreds of millions on making their premises Covid-secure; weeks preparing shops for reopening; and countless hours training staff on the latest safety measures.”

“The three lockdowns have cost non-food stores approximately £30 billion in lost sales – and it vital that they are able to make their contribution to the UK’s economic recovery.”

She adds: “While we expect an initial surge in spending when shops first open, the real test will be how this holds up.”

“Many of us will be looking forward to returning to our favourite shop in the coming weeks, and we all have a duty to keep each other safe.”

“Everyone should be considerate and respectful to their fellow shoppers and hard working shop staff. This way we can all enjoy shopping and support our local communities."