// Homebase reopens an additional 50 stores after a successful trial phase
// It initially reopened 20 stores after shutting them in March due to the coronavirus lockdown
// It will re-open all other stores from Saturday, May 2
Homebase has reopened an additional 50 stores following a successful trial phase that saw it open 20 stores after a few weeks of trading online only.
The home and DIY retailer said it also plans to reopen the rest of its store estate for “customers to browse and shop” from May 2.
Homebase had temporarily shut all of its stores in March due to the lockdown, although it was classified as an essential service by government and could’ve remained open.
READ MORE: Homebase begins reopening stores
Despite closing stores, the DIY retailer still offered a click-and-collect service which caused disruption for customers due to high demand.
However, following a successful trial of re-opening 20 stores last weekend, Homebase announced it would fully reopen an additional 50 stores from today, and all others this weekend.
As it did with the first 20 stores that re-opened, Homebase said all stores re-opening will have strict controls in place to ensure shopping is safe.
“We have taken this time to carefully review and make a large number of changes to our operations in preparation for a safe, phased reopening, in line with government guidance on social distancing,” Homebase chief executive Damian McGloughlin said in a statement.
“It has taken a tremendous amount of hard work and commitment from our teams across all parts of the business, to ensure we are ready to safely welcome customers back through our doors.
“I’m extremely grateful for the dedication shown by every single team member, and to our customers, for the huge support and understanding.”
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