Customers urged to follow five rules as shops reopen

Scottish retailers are urging customers to follow five rules when shops reopen on Monday.

The easing of the coronavirus lockdown means shops with outdoor entrances will be able to reopen, while indoor parts of shopping centres are expected to reopen on July 13.

The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) trade body, along with trade union Usdaw and the Scottish Government, are encouraging people to follow five steps for “considerate shopping”.

They are:

Queue considerately.

Maintain social distancing.

Follow instructions inside and outside shops.

Follow hygiene measures.

Be respectful to staff.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said shopping trips would be “a bit different” from before the lockdown.

She urged people to treat shop staff with respect and follow their instructions.

If you plan on visiting shops today, please do so responsibly. Maintain physical distancing, follow hygiene advice, wear a face covering and respect staff who may be asking you to shop differently. We’ve made so much progress against the virus – let’s not squander it. #StaySafe
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) June 29, 2020

David Lonsdale, director of the SRC, said: “It has never been more important to play our part in keeping our towns and retail destinations vibrant.

“Every visit we make helps support jobs in retail and throughout the supply chain.

“Retailers have been working around the clock to create a safe shopping environment, so their customers can have the confidence to return to their favourite shops.

“Our shopping experience may be changing, but if we all follow the necessary social distancing and hygiene measures and show consideration to those around us, then everyone will be better off.”

Economy secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Being able to reopen our non-essential retail businesses with necessary safety measures in place is a positive step forward in easing the coronavirus lockdown in Scotland.

“We each have an important role in ensuring we shop with care and consideration for others, and that rules are adhered to in a responsible manner.”

The Usdaw union, which represents shop workers, said staff have a right to work without fear of abuse.

Stewart Forrest, divisional officer at the union, said: “Unfortunately the early part of the coronavirus crisis saw a rise in instances of abuse towards shop workers, and we are absolutely clear that ‘abuse is not part of the job’.

“Along with the SRC and Scottish Government, we have collaborated to produce guidance for shops of all sizes and locations to provide staff and customers with a safe shopping experience.

“Customers need to play their part and be patient, observe social distancing and show respect to shop workers, whilst ensuring high streets and town centres remain vibrant and a great shopping experience for everyone.”