Penneys will start reopening its stores across Ireland tomorrow – but it will be a very different experience for anyone looking to pick up a few bits.
All stores with on-street access are reopening at 10:30am tomorrow, while those in shopping centres will reopen on Monday.
Limits on the number of customers allowed in and strict social distancing rules will form part of the “rigorous health and safety measures” the company has put in place for the coming weeks and months.
Meanwhile, all fitting rooms will be closed off, along with toilets, cafés and beauty stands. The company said all returns will be “managed in line with government advice.”
File photo of a Penneys sign in Dublin city centre | Image: James Horan/RollingNews.ieMeanwhile, Primark CEO Paul Marchant said customers won’t be greeted with any sales or special offers when they return.
“While it might take a little longer to get into store, once inside, customers will find all their favourite Penneys products and plenty of choice as usual,” he said.
“We have worked hard to make sure that clear signage and extra help will be there to guide them through the changes we have made to allow for social distancing.
“We are also asking customers to respect the measures we have put in place to help ensure shopping at Penneys is an enjoyable, safe experience for everyone.”
All staff will be offered face masks and gloves, while all tills will be behind Perspex screens.
Hand sanitising stations will be available around the stores and the company has hired staff to manage queues and encourage social distancing.
The company said each store will undergo deep cleaning before reopening and the stores will be cleaned more regularly during the day.
