Retail NI urges support of independent retailers ahead of new lockdown

By Liz Wells in Industry News 23rd November 2020

Retail NI is urging shoppers to follow the Executive’s regulations, ahead of the introduction of the region’s new lockdown, and to make a particular effort to support independent retailers who are facing closure.

The two-week period of measures, which comes into force on 27 November, will see non-essential retail shut and the hospitality sector only permitted to offer takeaway. Off licences will be allowed to remain open but will have to close at 20:00.

Retail NI chief executive, Glyn Roberts, said: “With a surge in shopping on our high streets this weekend, which is expected until 27 November, we would urge shoppers to stay safe and follow the Executive guidance. Retail NI have produced a simple five-point plan for shoppers to follow.

“We also want to ask shoppers to make a special effort this week to support independent retailers that are being forced to close for two weeks from Friday.”

Roberts added: “We need the Executive to bring forward immediate support for those businesses forced to close and produce a ‘survival’ strategy to ensure we save as many jobs and small traders as possible this Christmas.”