Shop safely in Salisbury this Christmas

The national Covid restrictions end today and Salisbury, along with the rest of Wiltshire, will be placed into Tier 2.

It may mean tougher rules on who we can meet and where, but non-essential shops WILL be able to open in ALL tiers.

So from today, Wednesday 2nd December, Salisbury city centre shops will welcome back shoppers to their Covid secure premises.

Retailers have spent hundreds of millions of pounds making shops safe for customers and staff. They are following all Government safety guidance but customers are also reminded they have a part to play too.

Salisbury business owners are especially asking people to support them, and the community at large, by waiting outside if they see too many other customers already in the shop.

Susi Mason, Director of Salisbury BID and owner of Casafina, said: “It is great news that non-essential shops will re-open on December 2nd. Businesses have been hit hard this year and we will be thrilled to welcome customers back into our shops at what is such an important time for retail.

“Independent business owners have put in a huge effort to make their premises Covid secure, but they also need the support of the local community to make sure everyone stays safe. Please, if a shop looks busy please wait patiently outside.”

Other ways customers can help keep Salisbury safe include:

• • Maintain social distancing
  • Follow all necessary hygiene measures - clean hands, cover face, make space
  • Follow safety advice inside and outside shops - take notice of any guidance in shop windows as to how many customers are allowed at any one time
  • Queue considerately and be patient
  • Respect our hardworking shopworkers
  • Try to avoid peak times
  • Don’t leave Christmas shopping to the last minute – shop earlier this year to help prevent a last-minute rush of customers

Coronavirus, two lockdowns and new social distancing rules have had a big impact on local independent businesses this year, but we can all do our bit to help them by shopping local this Christmas. According to a report from Visa and the Cebr (Centre for Economics and Business Research), consumers can double the amount of money that stays within their local economy by consciously choosing to shop more with independent, local businesses.

Local shops don’t just offer unique buying opportunities, they also offer flexibility. Some consumers may still feel vulnerable and worried about returning to the shops but many local independents are happy to offer private appointments or for small groups. They could also open late, or early. If you are worried please contact the shop direct and they will discuss options.