Tesco scraps one-way systems and increases customer limits as it lifts restrictions

Supermarket giant Tesco is slowly easing its coronavirus restrictions, allowing more people inside stores as the new one-metre plus social distancing rule comes into force.

The chain said it has now scrapped one-way systems and increased the number of customers allowed inside branches, reducing outdoor queues in the process.

Supermarkets across the UK introduced a series of safety measures back in March, after being told they would stay open throughout the pandemic.

Tesco joined rivals with one-way queues and a new one-in-one-out entry plan, while Aldi introduced a traffic light system at entrances to keep to the two-metre social distancing gap.

Stockpiling limits were also introduced on the back of a panic-buying frenzy, with essential items such as loo roll and tinned beans capped at just two per person.

Supermarkets have been under huge pressure since the UK went into lockdown in March (PA)

Tesco told The Sun it is now easing some of these shopping restrictions as more shoppers return to the high street following the easing of lockdown.

The supermarket - which has around 3,700 UK stores - said it will still monitor how many customers visit, but some branches will now increase in their entry limits.

This, it said, would be at the manager's discretion and subject to each store's size.

Tesco also confirmed its one-way systems have been removed, although the supermarket will still ask customers to stay two metres apart.

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Stores will still have floor markings in place to remind shoppers to social distance.

The government has recently slashed the social distancing rule, so that people must now stand at least one metre apart - although some businesses are still sticking to two metres.

In addition, Tesco has also increased its 80-item limit to 95 items as stock levels return to normal.

The grocer still has a three-per-person limit on face coverings, antibacterial handwash, antibacterial wipes, flour, and eggs.

Elderly and vulnerable shoppers still also get priority access on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 9am until 10am.