A furniture retailer is calling for the Government to review its timeline for the re-opening of non-essential retail stores, arguing that many furniture and flooring shops should be permitted to operate on an appointment-only basis ahead of the proposed return to trading on 12th April (see related).
Huw Williams, MD of Toons Furnishers, in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, has launched a petition in which he argues that many larger stores are capable of operating in a Covid-safe manner, and that jobs are at risk without the enabling of some flexibility.
“As Covid lockdown continues, many non-essential retail businesses are being placed under financial pressure due to inadequate Government support,” says Huw. “This is placing some non-essential retail businesses and their employees at risk.
“I am calling upon the Government to allow non-essential stores the choice to open on an appointment-only basis – where this can be safely operated – by March the 27th at the latest, to allow these retailers to at least benefit from some of the Easter trade.
“Whilst I acknowledge there is still a risk from Covid, the Government is being over-cautious in relaxing lockdown restrictions.”
Huw also made the plea in an interview with ITV News last week.
To find out more, and sign the petition, click here.
