Consumers feel retailers are doing enough to protect public

The BRC-Opinium Consumer Coronavirus Tracking Survey for 19-22 June found that 64% of respondents feel comfortable about making purchases in grocery stores, compared to 63% of respondents last week.

Visits to larger supermarkets remained at 66% of respondents, while local convenience stores rose to 50%, the survey found.

The most popular safety measures in stores remained compulsory hand sanitising (38%), one-way systems (36%), and regular cleaning (35%).

The poll found 60% of respondents either currently wear a mask or intend to, this compares to 70% last week, and the proportion who said they are not wearing masks rose from 29% to 40%.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: “Retailers will be reassured by polling showing that almost six times as many people agreed that retailers were doing enough to protect the public as disagreed. Nonetheless, retailers must continue to work hard to ensure everyone has the confidence to visit their local high street.

“Shops and jobs depend on the ongoing support by the public. While the initial burst of enthusiasm is welcomed, the coming weeks and months will determine the future of our high streets for years to come.”