Ahead of the re-introduction tomorrow morning (Friday 17
December) of Scotland-wide rules on physical distancing and
management of queues in shops, the Scottish Retail Consortium
(SRC) is asking members of the public to shop considerately and
to play their part in creating a safe and enjoyable retail
environment for fellow customers and store staff.
In particular, the SRC is asking shoppers to queue considerately,
wear a face covering, maintain social distancing, and be
respectful to shop staff. SRC is also launching a new social
media infographic to encourage safe shopping (https://www.brc.org.uk/media/678779/microsoftteams-image-15.png).
It comes on the eve of what is traditionally one of the busiest
shopping weekends of the year, and ahead of the final few
shopping days prior to Christmas and the start of the
post-Christmas discounting sales.
Retailers and shopworkers have worked hard and responsibly to
keep customers and staff as safe as they can be throughout the
pandemic. Retailers in Scotland have invested significantly in
store safety measures and have continued to go above and beyond
baseline Covid measures over recent months.
Retail is Scotland’s largest private sector employer, and the
industry is working hard to put in place the new measures
announced by the First Minister on Tuesday afternoon.
David Lonsdale, Director the Scottish Retail Consortium,
said:
“Retailers and store colleagues are working around the clock to
maintain a safe shopping experience, so customers can have the
confidence to go to their favourite shops. Customers will see
differences to their usual shopping routine and what is expected
of them too over the coming days.
“If we all wear a face covering, adhere to physical distancing
and government advice, and show consideration to those around us,
including shop staff who are doing a brilliant job in challenging
circumstances, then everyone will be better off. This way we can
all enjoy shopping over the festive period and support local jobs
and the vibrancy of our retail destinations.”
ENDS
Note 1: The SRC has produced a new infographic to be shared via
social media to remind shoppers to be considerate and wear a face
covering when shopping (available at:https://www.brc.org.uk/media/678779/microsoftteams-image-15.png).
Note 2: SRC understands the new rules come into effect at
midnight tonight and that the official government guidance and
regulations will be published today.
