A number of major retailers have tightened up their Covid-19 restrictions in recent days, with John Lewis suspending its click-and-collect option while Tesco, Morrisons, Asda and Waitrose (owned by John Lewis & Partners) have all ‘banned’ shoppers without masks.
The additional restrictions reflect a recent change in tone from the British government as well as an explicit ban on click-and-collect for non-essential retail business from the Scottish government, leading to widespread speculation that the rest of the UK will follow suit.
However, while the covid restrictions in Scotland were tightened instantly and with no prior warning, balloon and party businesses across the rest of the UK are taking the opportunity to prepare their businesses so they are able to safely continue operating.
“At the moment providing your local Trading Standards are happy with you offering click-and-collect, then you can continue doing so,” explained NABAS committee member and owner of Pink Tree Parties, Paula Ardron-Gemmell.
“But it’s likely England will follow in Scotland’s footsteps so it is a good idea to get yourselves prepared for moving to delivery-only – make sure you add delivery charges and that your car/van insurance and risk assessments are valid and in place. We’ll keep you informed as soon as we hear more!”
“We’ve listened carefully to the clear change in tone and emphasis of the views and information shared by the UK’s governments in recent days,” said Andrew Murphy, executive director of operations for John Lewis.
“While we recognise that the detail of formal guidance has not changed, we feel it is right for us – and in the best interests of our partners and customers – to take proactive steps to further enhance our Covid-security and related operational policies.”
The supermarkets have publicly stated that their security staff will deny entry to shoppers who are not wearing masks, unless they are exempt in line with government guidance.
