England is on its way out of lockdown over the next few months, with bars, restaurants and non-essential retailers due to open in the coming weeks.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the public on Monday, February 22, and laid out the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.
While ‘non-essential’ retailers remain closed, others considered essential have remained open during lockdown.
Many go-to stores are included in the list, such as supermarkets Tesco, Asda, Aldi and others like B&M and Home Bargains.
Also making the essentials list are stores B&Q, Homebase, Wickes, Halfords and more.
Below, we’ve taken a look at the rules you’ll need to follow in store when shopping.
B&Q
B&Q has social distancing measures in place across stores, and encourages shoppers to remain at least two metres apart at all times.
The retailer is also asking shoppers to try to visit earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid queues.
Groups shopping at B&Q are asked to reduce their numbers, with the recommendation of two people per group. Children under 16 are permitted at the manager’s discretion and there are staff at store entrances to offer help.
B&Q asks that customers try to pay via card or contactless to reduce the opportunity for virus transmission through contact.
It is mandatory to wear a face covering in store.
B&Q is also offering home delivery and click and collect services during lockdown.
Homebase
A statement on the Homebase website reads: "As an essential retailer, all our Homebase stores will remain open across the UK and Ireland, providing essential products and services for people to ensure their homes are safe and comfortable, we are offering virtual design consultations for those looking to create their dream kitchen or bathroom.
“The safety of our teams and customers remains our highest priority. We continue to follow the Government’s latest guidance to ensure that every precaution is taken so that shopping is safe for everyone.
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“We advise customers to visit our website in the first instance, before making a trip to store, where there is also an opportunity to utilise our Click & Collect service.
“Our store teams continue to work extremely hard under these challenging circumstances. Once more, I would like to extend a huge thank you to our entire team for their ongoing commitment, and to our customers, for the important part they play in helping us to create a safe and enjoyable shopping experience.
“Our teams are here to support you, please do the same for them. Let’s keep each other safe.”
Wickes
A statement on the Wickes website says: “Following recent communication across England, Scotland and Wales on current restrictions we wanted to reassure you that in line with Government advice, as an essential retailer, we will remain open; helping keep your homes warm, dry and safe this winter.
“The safety of both our customers and colleagues is critical and we wanted to highlight the measures in place to help protect everyone.”
Wickes has several safety measures in place during lockdown, these include allowing a limited number of 20 people in store at any one time.
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Only two people are allowed to shop together, face coverings must be worn, social distancing guidelines must be followed and contactless payment is encouraged.
Wickes has also confirmed that during lockdown its delivery slots will be made available up to seven days in advance, with additional slots released daily.
Halfords
A statement on Halfords’ website reads: “Our Halfords retail stores remain open.
“As an essential retailer and following government guidance our stores remain open across the country in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
“We are continuing to operate in a way that is safe for both our customers and colleagues.”
There are also a number of changes being made in stores to ensure the safety of staff and customers.
These include:
Halfords is offering a “Drive in, fit and repair” proposition for essential motoring and cycling services alongside a “Fast track click & collect”
Customers will now receive e-receipts. (paper receipts are available if the customer would prefer this)
Customers won’t be asked to sign paperwork.
A strict two metre rule will be enforced
Staff will have the cleaning materials to support hygiene guidelines.
Hand sanitisation station at the front of stores
All customers and staff (unless exempt in line with government guidelines) will be required to wear face coverings.
Dobbies
An update on the Dobbies website reads: "We continue to follow Government guidance and regional guidelines across the UK.
“For all garden centres and restaurants that are open, strict social distancing measures remain in place.
“The safety of our customers and team members is our number one priority.”
In England, Dobbies garden centres remain open, but it's restaurants and soft play areas are now closed.
