Government officials are reviewing mask-wearing and the one-metre-plus rule and are expected to announce their decision on 12 July, one week before England’s lockdown lifts.
So what does this mean for retailers? What will longer-term risk management look like? And what measures may remain beyond 19 July?
With face masks and social distancing potentially out of the window following the fourth and final stage of lockdown easing on 19 July, retailers could soon be preparing for yet another ‘new normal’. But what exactly will this look like?
So far, there have been numerous mixed messages and speculation in the media. But what we do know for certain is that the government is reviewing various restrictions and is set to present its decision to the public on 12 July. (Please note: Should the July 19 unlocking be delayed, this webinar will be rescheduled and all registrants will be notified of the new time and date in due course).
Crucially for shops, sources have suggested face coverings will remain only in ‘limited settings’ such as on public transport, and scientists are thought to be on board with the National Economic Recovery Taskforce’s proposals to scrap face covering rules.
The Prime Minister has also said there is a “good chance” of being able to disperse with the one-metre-plus rule from 19 July, though stressed that this “is still dependent on the data and no new variants emerging”.
So, with clarity essential in order for retailers to move forward post-lockdown, join the experts in the aftermath of the expected announcement for advice and guidance on what happens next.
Co-hosted by Ellis Whittam’s Director of Health & Safety, Nick Wilson, alongside special guest, BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre, this free session will unpack all of the relevant changes retailers can expect once final restrictions are lifted and offer practical advice on remaining risk aware:
Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre predicts that Perspex screens, social distancing signage and hand sanitizer may remain the norm, as “these items are fixed and non-intrusive in terms of the impact on the customer journey and experience.”
He adds: “The one measure we would all like to see removed is face coverings; however, the recent variants make that unlikely. Irrespective of what is announced, we still encourage retailers to be responsible.”
Having invested hundreds of millions on becoming COVID-secure, it is vital that the safety of staff and shoppers remains a top priority for retailers post 19 July, as abandoning all precautions without proper thought would no doubt be bad for business.
With this in mind, stay compliant, avoid confusion, and make sure you feel confident and prepared to trade post-lockdown by joining us for expert insight and practical advice.
We welcome you to submit your questions ahead of time so that our experts can answer them live during the session.
This webinar is free to attend – to register and submit your questions, please complete the form opposite.
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