Blackpool shops are ready to welcome customers back safely

As the lockdown begins to ease, retailers say safety must come first but they are keen to welcome back shoppers to help get the coast economy up and running once more and are hoping people return to the high streets.

So what will a spot of retail therapy look like when the doors open on June 15?

The Gazette has taken a look at the preparations as part of its ongoing campaign to support local businesses - Time to #supportlocal.

Sirge Smart from Mankind, the independent men’s designer-wear store on Church Street in Blackpool, said precautions had been put in place ready for the reopening and he was looking forward to meeting his customers once more.

He said: “We have put up a perspex kiosk at the till, markings on then floor and a one way system.

“It has been relatively easy for us as we have a big shop with plenty of room.

“We are going to play it by ear, just let a few people in at a time and try to keep things as normal as possible.

“We are starting with a sale. I know a lot of our regular customers are looking forward to coming back as they have messaged us. I am looking forward to seeing the regular faces and new ones of course.

“When we had to close on March 23, the new season stock had just come in so we will be playing catch up”

Sarah McConville from designer clothing shop Blueberries on Topping Street said they too had put in perspex screens, signs and hand sanitisers for customers.

She said: “We will be doing all the necessary things but we will also have reduced hours and during the week we will be operating a personal shopping experience only.

“On Saturdays we will be open to everyone in the normal way.

“We are going back to our roots in a way. We started out 35 years ago concentrating on the personal shopping experience and that’s what we will do now.

“People can go on our website or social media sites and book a time and we are getting a new app too.”

She said that they also had the roadworks on Topping Street to contend with too which had reduced pedestrian footfall in the area.

A spokesman for Affinity which has the Affinity Lancashire retail park at Fleetwood said: “We have made many changes to give our customers peace of mind. These include the introduction of floor markers and information posters around the outlet to guide customers and employees.

“Hand sanitising points have also been installed and we ask all visitors and staff to please follow the guidelines provided and use the sanitising stations regularly to maintain good hygiene. We also encourage customers to wear face coverings, if possible.”