All Dobbies stores to re-open tomorrow
The Dobbies garden centre chain is to re-open all 54 of its UK stores from tomorrow following their enforced closure due to the covid-19 crisis.
The move follows updated guidance from the UK government.
Dobbies said it will introduce a range of social distancing and safety measures. These will include limiting customer numbers in its shops and operating a queuing system outside stores with two metre markers. In addition, hand sanitising and trolley cleaning stations will be placed at all store entrances.
Meanwhile, staff and customers will be protected by plastic screens at checkouts and PPE will be provided for staff.
Although Dobbies’ in-store restaurants will remain temporarily closed, the company will be offering a takeaway menu including hot and cold drinks, soups, toasties, paninis and selected bakery items from 15 May. The service will also allow Club Plus members to redeem their hot drink credits and birthday treat vouchers.
Graeme Jenkins, chief executive of Dobbies, said: “We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the Government, British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly.
“Our team is well prepared, social distancing measures are in place and we look forward to welcoming customers back into our stores across England.”
