Homewares and housewares chain Dunelm has now reopened all of its stores in England and Northern Ireland (having started with a few in the Midlands, expanding to 39 across the UK). Stores in Scotland and Wales remain closed for the time being (in line with current guidance for the countries).
Dunelm is providing various ‘ways to shop’ to address any concerns that consumers have about returning to physical stores. The retailer is also trialling a virtual personal shopper service, starting with its Redditch and Erdington stores.
In its message to customers, the chain states: ‘We know that many of you are looking forward to visiting your local store again, but we also understand that some people might feel uncertain about it.’
In addition to social distancing in re-opened stores (with measures including ‘one-way browsing’, 2m floor markings and trolley and card machine sanitisation after every use), shoppers can remain outside and ask staff to shop for them, use the contact-free take Click and Collect options and take delivery of products in their cars.
The new virtual appointment service involves an interactive video call (up to 45 minutes) where consumers can discuss ideas and see new products and trends displayed in-store. Virtual shoppers then receive a ‘shopping list’ of items discussed during the appointment so they can place a Click and Collect order, which can be collected from a local store.
Top: A contact free outdoor Click and Collect customer at Dunelm.
