Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that all non-essential retail stores across England will be permitted to reopen from 15 June. The announcement follows nine weeks of enforced closures since lockdown began on 23 March.
Lockdown restrictions ease for non-essential retailers
During the daily briefing on 25 May, the Prime Minister announced that lockdown would be eased for some retail businesses. From 1 June, car showrooms and open-air outdoor markets can reopen. As these businesses mainly operate outdoors where the transmission rate is lower, these retail spaces will be permitted to open at an earlier date.
It was hoped that all retail businesses would reopen on this date, however, due to scientific evidence, the date has been pushed back by two weeks for non-essential retail shops. Non-essential retail businesses which operate indoors can re-open from 15 June, however, they must comply with the latest guidance to ensure the business is Covid-secure. This will apply to businesses such as small independent retail stores and large department stores.
Strict social distancing and hygiene standards
It is hoped that retail businesses will take advice from the food sector, which has remained open throughout the crisis. This includes implementing a variety of measures such as safety screens at checkouts, social distance markings, limited shopper numbers and the implementation of scan & go technology. All businesses will need to complete a risk assessment, in conjunction with representatives from trade unions to ensure they are confident the risks of spreading the virus can be managed. Retail stores have 3 weeks to prepare for reopening, however, the measures will only be eased on 15 June if the government’s five tests are met.
The Prime Minister has explained that the government will not be discouraging spending, as it is hoped that the retail sector will bounce back over the coming months. The government understands the important role the retail sector plays in the UK economy and believes reopening these stores will be the next step towards restoring people’s normal daily lives.
Experienced retail executives required to lead stores through the crisis
As our high streets slowly reopen, it is important for retailers to lead from the front with innovative solutions. The government advice provides a broad framework and will enable many stores to reopen, supporting millions of jobs across the UK.
Throughout the UK, retailers have endured more than nine weeks of enforced closures, so a successful reopening of stores will be critical. Retail businesses are under significant pressure to overcome the dramatic downturn in income, so it is important to hire experienced retail executives who have the skills needed to steer the business forward.
As Helen Dickinson, of the British Retail Consortium, says safety will be the fundamental concern of all retailers. This means many businesses will be looking for efficient executives who can implement the required measures quickly over the coming weeks. However, communication is also of paramount importance and clear guidance will need to be issued to both the workforce and returning customers.
The retail industry is a key component of the UK economy, so it is important that businesses hire retail executives with the experience and knowledge required to increase sales. If you’re looking for search support during turbulent times, AGP offer expert retail executive search services to secure top tier talent for your business. Get in touch today.