Lifestyle Express retailer adapts store for new normal

Bagha has increased his grocery, household and pet care categories to meet demand, and has managed to keep impulse sales strong.

He said: “The biggest challenge is the availability of brands or pack formats that I usually stock. If I can’t get the leading brand, I’m getting an alternative so my customers still have an option. It’s really important that I still have products on offer and my customers appreciate it.”

Bagha added: “My aim now is to retain our new customers. We pride ourselves on being reliable and friendly, providing the best service and great products. We’re building relationships with these new customers and I’m confident that we’ll continue to see them as regulars after the crisis has ended.”

In addition, Bagha has also introduced out a number of social distancing measures in-store, including installing Perspex screens at the till point, creating a one-way system with directional signage, and controlling the number of customers in-store at any one time.

He said: “The best compliment I’ve had so far is that a customer wished the big supermarkets could follow our lead with their safety measures. My customers feel so safe here and it’s wonderful that they’re using us for all their shopping, rather than just to top up.”