Currys PC World stores to initially reopen as tech help hubs
Currys PC World has unveiled plans for a phased reopening of 131 stores from next week.
During the first three days of reopening, the stores will operate as tech help hubs where in-store staff will focus on assisting customers with tech advice and problem solving for previously purchased items, irrespective of where they were bought. While customers will still be able to purchase new items, those needing tech advice will be prioritised.
Queue marshals practising social distancing will help match customers with the in-store experts they need to speak to, while a tried-and-tested smart queue management system will help move queues along as quickly as possible.
In addition, the retailer will offer free recycling of any unwanted tech items and staff will be on hand to deal issues such as exchanges, repairs and returns.
From 18 June, the stores will move to the usual Currys PC World offering where customers can browse shelves and buy as normal. The remainder of the store estate will open in phases during the next few weeks.
The retailer said all stores will reopen with rigorous social distancing and hygiene measures in place. In addition, Currys PC World owner Dixons Carphone has set up a temporary Safety Review Board where weekly meetings will be attended store managers, safety experts and Alex Baldock, the group’s chief executive.
Dixons Carphone chief operating officer Mark Allsop said: “Our three day ‘Tech Help Hub’ initiative is part of our commitment to put customers first – even customers that have previously chosen to buy their tech elsewhere.
“We’re pleased to be opening our stores slowly and safely across the UK & Ireland – and we will maintain extreme vigilance, constantly reviewing and improving our approach to safety in an ever-changing situation. Most importantly we’re proud of our colleagues themselves, people who continue to work hard to make sure consumers across the country get the tech they need safely.”
