Health and beauty chain Boots has confirmed how stores will operate from June, with staff working from virtual screens and strict new social distancing measures in place.
The majority of Boots stores have remained open throughout the coronavirus pandemic as it is considered ‘essential’ due to its pharmacy section.
Each store will have new rules in place to help prevent a second wave of the virus, including further safety measures as its No7 counter and branded beauty lines prepare to reopen, reports the Mirror .
When further stores begin reopening in June , customers will be asked to queue outside, with a maximum number of people allowed in at a time.
A spokeswoman for Boots said: "A new wave of PPE is rolling out including additional Perspex screens to cover all counters, tills, self-checkouts and areas that have not been recently utilised".
Branches will operate a triaging process for different customers’ needs while dedicated social distancing wardens will patrol stores at all times.
Floor markers will also be in place with one-way routes in selected stores, while more signage will be implemented to help maintain a two-metre distance.
There will also be changes to beauty counters with testers and face to face consultations temporarily banned.
Customers will, however, be able to request help via its No7 virtual beauty counter. The online video consultations will offer 20-minute personalised, one-to-one sessions with beauty advisors for cosmetic and skincare support.
Tracey Clements, at Boots UK, said: "We’ve learnt a great deal over the last eight weeks and the additional measures we are putting in place will allow us to adapt to a radically different retail world.
"Many of the developments are based on feedback from our colleagues who are looking forward to welcoming back more customers. Hygiene, social distancing and protection for customers and colleagues continues to be our focus."
Boots Opticians and Hearingcare services have also been changed to ensure people have access to the essential care they need.
Clinicians will be providing care by phone and, where necessary, face to face appointments will be offered with the appropriate social distancing place.
