Retail stores are slowly re-starting their operations

In some good news, retail stores are gradually re-starting their operations as malls re-open too, but getting shoppers back is a challenge.

Malls and retailers are slowly re-starting their operations as the stay-at-home measures are being eased down across the globe.

The main struggle comes after this, that is to persuade the wary consumers that it is safe to shop, especially when the virus is still spreading.

Macy’s have re-opened some of their stores, but customers are not allowed to try on the displayed dresses.

At Best Buy, customers will have to schedule their appointment at the re-opened stores, and they must stand at a distance of six feet from the sales executive. If the customer selects a product and he want to buy it, the sales associate will have to first wipe it down.

Companies do want to begin the operations, but their priority will be to protect their shoppers and for this they will leave no stone unturned. They are also trying to revive their plunged sales figures.

Big retail chains are employing different approaches to emerge from this crisis, some of the US outlets like Nordstrom and Gap voluntarily decided to remain shut in the month of May.

The fear of getting contaminated in public areas and with limited testing may cause a great barrier for retail industry to get their customers feel comfortable. Some people believe that it is too soon to re-open malls and non-essential stores.

As per Cowen research surveys, customers lack the confidence to come back to the malls. About 50% of the respondents planned to shop in stores for garments once they reopen but they are most likely to avoid the dressing rooms.

There is a part of the population of customers who are still considering staying away from malls out of the fear of catching the virus.

After the easing of the lockdown, the malls will look completely different. Individual sanitizing wipes and masks will be provided to shoppers at zero charge, their temperature will also be checked using infrared thermometers. It will be compulsory for each one to wear a mask and stand at a distance of 50 square feet from each other.

There will be social distancing circles drawn throughout the mall and in the food court there will be limited number of seats and in the bathrooms every other urinal and sink will be sealed.

Big retail chains like Macy’s are likely to limit the number of shoppers in their stores. There will be social distancing markers even inside the store. Most retailers are planning to suspend tailoring services as well as ear piercings. Before trying a jewelry or a watch the customers hands will be sanitized first.

The aim of the retailers is to create a safe and secured environment for the customers where they can shop confidently with peace of mind.