Six changes at Home Bargains for shoppers including one in one out policy
HOME Bargains shoppers can still buy food and essentials at the retailer during the coronavirus crisis.
But to help keep staff and shoppers safe, the bargain shop has introduced several rules that you’ll need to follow during your visits.
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Boris Johnson ordered all "non-essential" shops to shut on March 23, while urging Brits to stay at home to stop the spread of Covid-19.
As Home Bargains sells food, toiletries and medicines, it falls under the category of shops that are allowed to stay open.
But to minimise the risk of coronavirus spreading further, it's continuously announcing various social distancing measures.
The retailer also still sells items online, although delivery times could be delayed.
Here's what you need to know for when you next visit Home Bargains.
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Limited number of customers in stores
Similar to many other retailers, Home Bargains is limiting the number of customers permitted into each store at any one time.
If a store reaches the limit, which will vary depending on the shop, staff will ask you to queue outside until there is space.
It's urging customers to shop alone if possible, with only one member per household allowed.
The rules mean many shops now have one-in-one-out policies to keep the store from overcrowding.
These policies have been in place for a week, Home Bargains told The Sun.
Priority access for NHS staff and elderly
When the queuing system is in place, Home Bargains is giving priority access to NHS and care workers.
To skip the queue, simply go to the front and show your ID.
Home Bargains is also giving priority access to disabled and elderly customers who may not be able to queue for long periods of time.
Extended opening hours for vulnerable shoppers
The bargain shop is urging non-vulnerable customers not to shop during the first hour of opening each day to give more space to those at risk.
Home bargains told The Sun it won't turn customers away if they come early as not all medical issues are visible, but it's asking shoppers to be respectful of the rules.
Home Bargains typically opens its shop doors at 8am every day, but it can vary depending on location so it's best to double-check this in advance.
Supermarkets such as Iceland and Lidl also opened their doors earlier to help elderly customers during the coronavirus outbreak.
Perspex screens and floor markings
Home Bargains has installed perspex screens at checkouts to help keep staff safe.
Shoppers are expected to respect the plastic screens and maintain a safe distance from workers.
The retailer has also introduced floor markings at all checkouts to help you keep a two metre distance when you're queueing up.
Encouraging card payments
Although Home Bargains is still accepting cash payments, it's encouraging customers to pay card, particularly by contactless or mobile, as much as possible.
To help, it's increased the contactless payment limit to £45.
Product restrictions
In April, Home Bargains stores were limiting toilet roll and hand sanitisers to two per customer.
Some other products were also being rationed on a store-by-store basis, depending on availability.
Most of these restrictions have now been lifted, although some stores are still limiting sales of hand gel, Home Bargains told The Sun.
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At the beginning of the pandemic, Home Bargains shoppers fought over loo roll and panic bought booze.
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While a few weeks ago, Home Bargains rolled out essentials food boxes for delivery for £23.99.
The retailer has also launched Jane Asher baking boxes for £20.99.