Over the last couple of days it has been confirmed that "Non-Essential" retail will be permitted to open by June 15th (with the first easement for places like Car Showrooms next week) and various chains, including places like John Lewis, Halfords and Greggs, have been outlining plans since then.
Obviously they will be subject to the kinds of measures that we have become accustomed so in supermarkets over the past few weeks - so lots of queuing, one way systems and protective screens.
I am interested in what people think the impact will be. While it is certainly a step in the right direction I find it hard to see it doing all that much to reverse the economic impact that is being felt.
For sure you will see very long lines for a short period of time as some of that pent up demand is released and people are able to get things they haven't been able to source elsewhere and for others the lure of a "steak bake" will be overwhelming.
But I do wonder about the longevity of that effect. Aside from the issue that lots of people are still scared witless by the virus and are reluctant to leave their homes. Many others are either working at home or have suffered economically. How do you coax people into doing something that it meant to be in some respect enjoyable or uplifting when all the "fun" elements are removed and it just becomes a day of standing in lines and being scowled at should you inadvertently pass within 2m for a moment.
Sadly I see nothing more than the continued steady decline of the High Street.
Obviously they will be subject to the kinds of measures that we have become accustomed so in supermarkets over the past few weeks - so lots of queuing, one way systems and protective screens.
I am interested in what people think the impact will be. While it is certainly a step in the right direction I find it hard to see it doing all that much to reverse the economic impact that is being felt.
For sure you will see very long lines for a short period of time as some of that pent up demand is released and people are able to get things they haven't been able to source elsewhere and for others the lure of a "steak bake" will be overwhelming.
But I do wonder about the longevity of that effect. Aside from the issue that lots of people are still scared witless by the virus and are reluctant to leave their homes. Many others are either working at home or have suffered economically. How do you coax people into doing something that it meant to be in some respect enjoyable or uplifting when all the "fun" elements are removed and it just becomes a day of standing in lines and being scowled at should you inadvertently pass within 2m for a moment.
Sadly I see nothing more than the continued steady decline of the High Street.