Retailers have been given a glimmer of hope with plans to ease lockdown and reopen non-essential stores on April 12 if the government hits its vaccination target.
Under measures announced by the Prime Minister, non-essential shops, including local florists, libraries, and retail chains such as Primark and John Lewis could trade again from April.
It gives retailers just over six weeks to get Covid-ready, although changing rooms will remain shut to minimise contact between members of the public.
Under Boris's four step exit strategy, up to two friends and family members will be able meet from March 8 in a public setting such as a park.
Non-essential shops fall under step two of his roadmap, meaning they'll reopen on April 12 at the earliest.
Also falling under step two are hairdressers, nail salons and public buildings.
The news means that popular shops like Primark, New Look, M&S and Dunelm will all be permitted to reopen given the vaccination rollout is under control.
Non-essential shops in England were forced to close on January 6 this year, after the country entered its third emergency lockdown.
The only shops that have remained are those which the government deemed essential.
Supermarkets like Asda, Aldi, Tesco, Lidl, Morrisons, Sainsbury's and Iceland have all been allowed to remain open, as well as banks, building societies, pharmacies and post offices.
Homeware stores including Home Bargains, B&M and The Range have also been open to the public.
Under Boris’s exit strategy, school sports and family picnics will resume on March 8 when children return to education.
The PM's roadmap outlines four key tests that must be met before new restrictions begin to lift, including infection rates, which scientists have said remain worryingly high.
Six friends - or two households - can meet outside from Easter. Sports such as tennis and basketball will also resume from 29 March.
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