// Currys PC World to reopen 131 stores from Monday
// The stores will initially serve as “tech help hubs”
// Tech experts have been briefed on how to help customers with any tech issues
Currys PC World has announced it will reopen 131 of its stores from Monday, initially as expert “Tech Help Hubs” to support customers with existing tech needs.
The electricals retailer has specially briefed its tech experts to help customers with any tech challenges they may have faced during the lockdown period.
From June 18, the 131 reopened stores will move to the normal Currys PC World offering, allowing customers to browse shelves safely while the retailer works to bring back its usual services.
READ MORE: Currys PC World lauches customer testing initiative
Currys PC World will also offer free recycling of any tech brought into store.
Expert colleagues will also be on hand to deal with anything else where customers may need support, including exchanges, repairs and returns.
The retailer has extended its returns policy to cover items bought in-store up to March 24, accepting valid returns until July 6.
Meanwhile, queue marshals will implement social distancing measures while engaging customers to understand their requirements.
Currys PC World said it would continue to be open 24/7 with next day home-delivery and same day zero-contact ‘order & collect’ being offered from open stores.
The retailer will also offer customers who prefer to shop from home, a ShopLive video personal shopping service.
It said all stores will reopen with “rigorous social distancing and hygiene measures in place,” adhering to government standards.
Chief executive Alex Baldock introduced a “slowly and safely” approach for the retailer, which includes a process for constantly challenging and improving its own measures for colleagues and customers.
That process includes the creation of a digital forum for colleagues to exchange learnings, as well the introduction of a Safety Review Board.
The board will meet weekly, with the attendance of store managers, safety experts and Baldock, who will attend for the next few weeks.
Some of the key safety and cleanliness measures introduced include:
• Limited number of customers allowed in store at one time, with a one-way system and clear floor-markings to keep customers at least two-metres apart
• Safety screens at checkouts and service desks to protect everyone, with customers encouraged to use contactless payment if possible
• Clear in-store signage asking customers to speak to a colleague should they want to see a demo (versus touching the technology themselves) who can then show the product in action safely
• Increased and more regular cleaning and sanitising of trolleys, handrails and products, with protective equipment for colleagues that need it, alongside plenty of anti-bacterial gel dispensers
• Working closely on safety measures with the British Retail Consortium and Environmental Health Officers
“Our three day ‘Tech Help Hub’ initiative is part of our commitment to put customers first – even customers that have previously chosen to buy their tech elsewhere,” Dixons Carphone chief operating officer Mark Allsop said.
“We’re pleased to be opening our stores slowly and safely across the UK & Ireland – and we will maintain extreme vigilance, constantly reviewing and improving our approach to safety in an ever-changing situation.
“Most importantly we’re proud of our colleagues themselves, people who continue to work hard to make sure consumers across the country get the tech they need safely.”
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