B&M, Home Bargains and B&Q give important lockdown update to customers

As the country prepares for yet another lockdown on Thursday, people are still trying to get to grips with the new rules for shops and other businesses.

Essential shops will be able to stay open, including supermarkets and other food shops, but what about stores like B&M and Home Bargains?

A lot of the stuff these shops sell counts as ‘non-essential’, which has left some customers confused.

Betty Longbottom / Geograph

Well, like with the last lockdown, Home Bargains will be able to stay open as it sells essential items like food and medicines.

Wilko will also be able to stay open, as they sell essential items like medicines, as will The Range.

The Range said in an update: “On Government advice we remained open during the last lockdown and will continue to remain open for your convenience.”

Jaggery / Geograph

B&M issued an update to customers on Facebook yesterday, saying: “As an essential retailer and on Government advice we remained open in the first lockdown.

“B&M was proud to serve our communities and we will be doing so again. Our colleagues are working tirelessly to make sure you can get all of the items you need.

“So there’s no need to panic buy – our warehouses are full and we are working super hard to keep stock flowing into stores.”

If you fancy having a go at some DIY during lockdown, B&Q has also confirmed it will remain open.

According to the B&Q website: “As an essential retailer our stores in areas where there is a local lockdown will remain open. To reduce the risk of transmission, in line with government guidance, we have implemented comprehensive controls and strict social distancing measures in all of our stores.

“All stores have a designated queuing area outside and these have markers every two metres to help remind everyone to respect each other’s personal space. 

“To further support social distancing, stores have two metre floor markers throughout as well as other point of sale, and perspex screens have been installed at the checkouts.

“We also have hand sanitiser stations to ensure trolleys are good to go. Colleagues are on hand to remind everyone to stay safe and follow these guidelines.”

You can check out a full list of everywhere that can and can’t stay open from Thursday here.