SAFER SHOPPING FOR CLIENTS AND STAFF

SIMON CHAPLIN

V “There are some things in life for which seeing is believing. Our Hatch End showroom is one of them. Home to over 180 of the most exciting furniture and lighting brands, it’s a space in which to look, touch and imagine new ways of living.

“Last year, we put into place a variety of new measures. The first was to implement an appointment booking system as opposed to our previous walk-in policy. While it was originally born out of the desire to minimise the number of clients in-store at any given time, we’ve found that it’s allowed us to attend our clients with even more exclusivity and care, so it’s here to stay! Upon booking their appointment, customers receive a confirmation email with the details of their private viewing and a gentle reminder re the guidelines for physical distancing in-store. Face masks are compulsory and we ask that clients keep these on for the duration of their appointment.

“We have also increased the sanitisation of touch points and shared areas in the showroom. Cleaning is now conducted on a continual circuit throughout the day and there are dispensers with alcohol gel perched (atop coasters!) throughout the showroom. “We’ve also given members of the team permission to work from home for part of the week or as and when needed. “Deliveries have changed somewhat, too. We’re currently operating two-man deliveries, and each of our in-house team has their temperature checked before heading out. While we’ve always rung to schedule slots with our clients, many clients now opt for kerbside deliveries where appropriate. For deliveries where installation is required, our delivery team arrives with fresh PPE and maintains a safe distance at all times.”